The USRA Science and Technology Institute (STI) is seeking a full-time Postdoc Researcher to join the X-ray Research Group at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in Huntsville, AL. The successful candidate will support the scientific research of the Group, especially research related to the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) mission, which is led by NASA MSFC.

　　Launched on 2021 December 9, IXPE is a NASA Small Explorer mission in partnership with the Italian Space Agency (ASI). IXPE is enabling breakthrough x-ray polarimetry measurements on many classes of cosmic X-ray sources including accreting stellar black holes and neutron stars; magnetars; radio pulsars, pulsar wind nebulae, and supernova remnants; and active galaxies including blazars.

　　The initial appointment is for two years, with renewal for an additional year possible. The starting date is negotiable; the appointment can begin as soon as a successful candidate is selected but no later than 2024 September 1. Applications received before 2024 March 1 will be given full consideration.

　　Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

　　Analyze IXPE science data and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.

　　Perform regular duties supporting the IXPE Science Operations Center which is located at MSFC including the development or testing of software for IXPE data processing and analysis.

　　Organize and propose new IXPE observations of astrophysical sources through the General Observer program.

　　Conduct independent research to help maintain scientific excellence within the IXPE team and perform general research supporting activities of the STI and the MSFC X-ray Group

　　Required Qualifications:

　　Education: Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related discipline

　　Experience:

　　Significant experience in data analysis of astrophysical sources

　　A record of publication of relevant research in refereed scientific journals

　　Experience in analysis of polarimetric measurements of astrophysical sources desired.

　　Experience in machine learning desired.

　　Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

　　Knowledge of high-energy astrophysics

　　Proficiency with astrophysics data analysis tools and software packages

　　In-depth knowledge of programming language(s) commonly used in modern astrophysics, such as Python.

　　Strong oral and written communication skills

　　Working Conditions: This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, etc. Extensive online usage. This is largely a sedentary role.

　　Travel: Scientific Meetings and Conference as needed – one or two per year.

　　Position is pending NASA funding.

　　Applicants should apply to the posting at USRA Careers (https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=f03960f2-20cd-4828-9ae5-415eefc7072e&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US) and include a letter of interest, resume, or curriculum vita. Additional information on USRA can be found at www.usra.edu .

　　USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity.