XRISM Support Scientist

X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) Support Scientist

Applications are now being accepted for a support scientist to work in the X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) Guest Observer Facility (GOF) at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) in Greenbelt, MD. The position is funded through the University of Maryland College Park (UMCP) and the Center for Research and Exploration in Space Sciences & Technology II (CRESST II). 

XRISM is a collaborative mission between NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), with European Space Agency (ESA) participation. The objective of the mission is to investigate celestial X-ray objects in the Universe with high-throughput imaging and high-resolution spectroscopy. XRISM carries microcalorimeter-based Resolve and CCD-based Xtend instruments and was launched in September 2023.

The support scientist is expected to become an expert user of XRISM, with a high level of knowledge of the instruments and analysis software. The scientist will be responsible for assisting the community in making the best use of XRISM by testing the software and pipeline-processed data for scientific accuracy, by contributing to the creation and maintenance of documents, and by answering individual questions from the astronomical community. 

This is a full-time position, with approximately 75% of time devoted to the XRISM GOF responsibilities described above. The remainder is available for self-driven original research projects, preferably in high energy astrophysics or other science areas with direct applicability to XRISM.

Candidates for the position must have had a Ph.D. in Physics or Astronomy, or a related field, for at least four years with a proven and consistent record of scientific research in X-ray astrophysics. Preference will be given to those having experience with high resolution X-ray spectroscopy as well as those exhibiting the ability and inclination to provide thorough, readable, and user-friendly documentation. 

The position will be a multi-year position with a nominal starting date in Fall 2024, but some flexibility is possible. We expect the selected candidate to work locally, with a regular schedule on-site at GSFC. Salary and benefits are competitive, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Candidates should send a complete application – which includes a cover letter, Curriculum Vitae including a complete publications list, a 2–3-page statement of research interests, and contact information for three references – through the CRESST II Breezy application platform by September 30th, for full consideration. The position will remain available until filled.

For more information about the duties or XRISM, contact Dr. Brian Williams (brian.j.williams@nasa.gov). For information on UMCP and CRESST II, contact Dr. Tracy Huard (thuard@umd.edu).

The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, creed, marital status, political affiliation, personal appearance, or on the basis of rights secured by the First Amendment, in all aspects of employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.