Postdoctoral Research Scholar

The Opportunity

The Physical Sciences Department at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Daytona Beach Campus invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Research Scholar specializing in space plasma physics, with a focus on scientific investigations using data from NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) Mission. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of data analysis, plasma theory, and space physics to advance our understanding of plasma heating processes in Earth's magnetosphere.

Key Responsibilities:

Scientific Research (Primary Role)

• Conduct independent and collaborative research using NASA MMS mission data.

• Apply and further develop the characteristic heating frequency concept to investigate plasma heating mechanisms during various magnetospheric physical processes.

• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at scientific meetings.

Research Proposal Development

• Assist in preparing new research proposals to NASA and other funding agencies.

• Generate scientific figures, plots, and supporting materials for proposals.

• Provide proofreading and technical review to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Training and Professional Development

• Participate in university colloquia, seminars, MMS team meetings, and other scientific gatherings.

• Develop a structured mentoring plan in consultation with the supervising faculty member.

• Attend and contribute to weekly research group meetings.

Teaching Assistantship

• Provide grading and instructional support as needed for the Space Systems Engineering course or related curriculum.

With vibrant campuses in Daytona Beach, FL, and Prescott, AZ-along with a Worldwide network spanning roughly 120 global locations-Embry-Riddle proudly stands as the world's largest aviation and aerospace university. Now celebrating our 100th year, we continue to lead innovation in STEM education, serving more than 30,000 students worldwide. Our cutting-edge programs in Applied Science, Aviation, Business, Technology, Engineering, Safety, Security, and Space prepare the next generation of leaders shaping the future of flight and beyond.

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Perks Await You at Embry-Riddle!

• Generous Time Off: Enjoy 9+ paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day.
• Tuition Coverage: Get 100% tuition coverage for yourself for one undergraduate and one graduate degree, and discounted rates for your spouse and dependent children up to age 26.
• Retirement Contributions: ERAU contributes 6% of your base salary to your retirement plan and offers a 4% matching contribution - with no vesting period.
• Personal Leave: Relax with 12 days of personal leave for non-exempt employees or 18 days for exempt full-time employees in your first year.

Required Education and Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or other doctorate level equivalent in Space Plasma Physics
• Data analysis software, e.g., matlab, IDL or Python
• Familiarity with SPEDAS software
• 1-3 years experience in plasma physics research
• Must have a prior peer-reviewed publication in the space plasma physics field

Application process/requirements:

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

To submit your application for this opportunity, please visit the Embry-Riddle Career Site and search for requisition number R310728. Please attach all relevant materials to your application when you apply online. Complete submissions include:

• Cover letter
• Full CV
• Research statement
• Contact information for at least three professional references (please note that references may be contacted as part of the interview/screening process)

Current Embry-Riddle employees: Please apply directly through the ERAU Employee Hub Central application within Workday.

Embry-Riddle is committed to fostering a workplace where all individuals are valued and respected. We strive to ensure that all faculty, staff, and students are treated fairly and provided equal opportunities for employment, advancement, compensation, training, and other benefits of employment. Embry-Riddle makes employment decisions - including hiring, promotions, compensation, and other terms of employment - based on individual merit, qualifications, and abilities. Embry Riddle is strongly opposed to discrimination and harassment, and such behavior is prohibited by university policy. Embry Riddle does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, veteran status, predisposing genetic characteristics, age, religion, or pregnancy status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law, in its employment, educational programs, admissions policies, financial aid, or other school-administered programs or activities. For further information, please visit our website .