Postdoctoral Scholar - Aeronautics & Astronautics (Space/Electric Propulsion)

Description

The William E. Boeing Department of Aeronautics & Astronautics at the University of Washington seeks highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholars to work on next-generation electric propulsion concepts for very-low-Earth orbit (vLEO) satellites. The goal of this project is to improve the science and technology of electric propulsion concepts that utilize atmospheric gases for propellant (i.e. Air-Breathing Electric Propulsion). The successful candidate will have the opportunity to research and develop novel thruster configurations using state-of-the-art facilities, explore fundamental plasma dynamics and non-equilibrium plasma chemistry inherent to air-breathing thrusters, and assess propulsion performance using industry-standard thrust stands.

The successful candidates will work with Prof. Justin Little in the Space Propulsion and Advanced Concepts Engineering (SPACE) Lab. We are looking for candidates interested in exploring at least one of the following ideas: 

• High-pulse-rate pulsed inductive thrusters
• Non-conventional Hall effect thruster configurations
• RF plasmas for material testing of vLEO spacecraft surfaces

Candidates will have the opportunity to engage with the electric propulsion and space communities through attendance at conferences, meetings, and networking events. They will receive hands-on research mentorship and professional development support.

This full-time 100% FTE position is offered for nontenured 1 year (12 months) with potential for renewal depending on job performance and funding availability.  The base salary range for this position will be $6,498/month ($77,976/year[RR1] ). The anticipated start for this position is December 15, 2024, or soon thereafter.

Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington Labor Relations website.[RR2] 

 

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Completion of a PhD in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field at the time of the appointment.
• Experience in experimental plasma physics.
• Ability to function and thrive in a collaborative environment.
• Experience in publishing articles in peer reviewed journals.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Interest in mentoring / supervising graduate and undergraduate students. 
• Ability to manage priorities and timelines.
• Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents at the time of application.

Desired Qualifications:

• Expertise in the design and testing of electric propulsion systems.
• Experience with plasma diagnostics such as Langmuir probes, emissive probes, retarding potential energy analyzers, among others.
• Experience with thrust stands for electric propulsion performance measurements.
• Experience with design and testing pulsed power circuits.
• Experience with RF plasma sources.
• Experience with building and maintaining vacuum systems.
• Experience in building equipment using a machine shop
• Expertise in reduced-order modeling of plasmas, including plasma chemistry.

Application Instructions

For full consideration, applicants should submit via Interfolio, the following by December 31st:

• Cover letter
• Letter should be no more than one page detailing
1. their research experience
2. how their interests would fit the project
3. career plans
4. available start date 
• Curriculum Vitae (including a list of publications)
• 2 letters of recommendation

 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Equal Opportunity

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

Benefits Information

The University is committed to providing excellent benefits to our faculty. For a summary of available benefits, please see UWHR benefits information.

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Disability Services

The University of Washington is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.