Studying protostars and brown dwarfs with the James Webb Space Telescope

Organization
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Reference Code
0059-NPP-MAR23-ARC-Astrophys
Application Deadline
3/1/2023 6:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone
Description

We are searching for a postdoctoral scholar to join us in the analysis of infrared spectra of protostars and brown dwarfs observed with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and large groundbased observatories.  These observations will determine or constrain the temperatures, surface gravities, compositions, accretion properties, and chemical abundances of the most embedded protostars and the coldest, least-massive brown dwarfs that have ever been observed. We are seeking a researcher to participate in the reduction, information retrieval, and analysis of JWST guaranteed time observations (GTOs) of the infrared spectra of several protostars and brown dwarfs. Experience in data reduction and analysis of stellar, brown dwarf, protostellar, or other similar infrared spectra are required. This should include significant experience in applying statistical Bayesian analysis techniques to astronomical spectra and / or developing appropriate atmospheric or circumstellar models.

The successful candidate will be able to produce results quickly and efficiently and will be able to work effectively in a modest-sized team that is distributed in the US and Europe. Independent research will be encouraged in addition to working as part of a well-organized team of scientific experts. Interested applicants should contact the advisors at least a month prior to the proposal deadline to discuss and outline a research proposal.

Location:
Ames Research Center
Moffet Field, California
Field of Science:Astrophysics
Advisors:
Thomas Peter Greene
tom.greene@nasa.gov
650-604-5520
Thomas Leonard Roellig
Thomas.L.Roellig@nasa.gov
650-604-6426

Applications with citizens from Designated Countries will not be accepted at this time, unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the United States. A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at: https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/export-control .

Eligibility is currently open to:

• U.S. Citizens;
• U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR);
• Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J-1 visa status; and,
• Applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. at the time of application with 1) a valid EAD card and 2) I-485 or I-589 forms in pending status

Eligibility Requirements

• Degree: Doctoral Degree.