These positions will involve carrying out observations and developing models and software tools for analysis and interpretation of data on interstellar medium, molecular clouds, cloud cores, and star formation. In particular, this work will be preparation for data coming from the Herschel Space Observatory, currently scheduled for launch at the end of 2008. Scientists at JPL have a major involvement in this mission and have guaranteed observing time (GT) and include two PI's for Herschel Open Time Key Projects (OTKP). One OTKP, led by Dr. Paul Goldsmith, targets interstellar oxygen chemistry, and the other, led by Dr. William Langer, studies the state of the Galactic diffuse ISM. In preparing for and exploiting data from Herschel, a variety of auxiliary observations will be critical, including submillimeter spectral line and continuum data obtained using facilities including the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory, to which JPL staff have access, the CARMA interferometric array, and other telescopes.
The individual(s) in these positions will be expected to carry out his/her program of research and to collaborate with other staff members in observations leading to and complementary to Herschel, as well as participating in activities associated with the Herschel GT and OTKP. Candidates should have experience in some combination of the following, mm/submm observations, data reduction, and modeling of physics, chemistry, excitation, and radiative transfer in the interstellar medium. Experience developing software is highly desirable. Paul Goldsmith, Senior Research Scientist in JPL’s Astrophysics and Space Sciences Directorate, or William Langer, Senior Research Scientist in JPL's Engineering and Science Directorate, will serve as JPL postdoctoral advisor to the selected candidate(s). The appointee will be guided by the JPL postdoctoral advisor to ensure that the research work will result in publications in the open literature.
The appointment is contingent upon evidence of completion of a PhD. Please send a letter describing research interests, a curriculum vitae, and a list of three references (with telephone numbers, Email, and postal addresses) to:
Dr. Paul F. Goldsmith
JPL, MS 180-703, 4800 Oak Grove Drive
Pasadena CA 91109-8099 USA
Tel: +1-818-393-0518
E-mail: Paul.F.Goldsmith@jpl.nasa.gov
or:
Dr. William D. Langer
JPL, MS 180-500
4800 Oak Grove Drive
Pasadena, CA 91109-8099
E-mail: William.Langer@jpl.nasa.gov
