Research Scientist in the Department of Physics and the Integrated Space Science and Technology

Hardware validation spanning chip-level and module-level photonic testing, full photonic system characterization, and instrument-level integration of the photonic subsystem;

Systems engineering, including defining system requirements, generating interface documents, and specifying parts and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) for procurement;

Laboratory operations, including maintaining and developing lab infrastructure with an emphasis on equipment automation;

Documenting technical work, tracking project progress, and communicating outcomes through formal written reports and oral presentations.

The successful applicant will work primarily on site at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD, which will provide the office and laboratory space needed for the project. The research is carried out with Dr. Mark Stephen (Project Development Lead, GSFC Climate and Radiation Laboratory) and Dr. Berhanu Bulcha (Instrument System Engineer, GSFC). The appointee will have opportunities to mentor or work with AU research students, to explore collaborations with other AU researchers, to present research seminars, and to participate in Department of Physics and ISSTI activities.

Qualifications

Applicants should preferably hold a Ph.D. or other terminal degree in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline. Applicants with a Master's degree will also be considered.

The following experience is desirable:

• Design, layout, and fabrication of photonic integrated circuits;
• Electro-optical systems and components, including modulators, waveguide gratings, optical amplifiers, and photodetectors;
• Microwave photonics, and RF and analog circuit design;
• Photonic and electromagnetic design and simulation tools;
• Laboratory characterization of electro-optical systems, including experience with lasers, photodiodes, optical spectrum analyzers, RF signal analyzers, and oscilloscopes, and with test automation;
• Systems engineering practice, including requirements definition and interface documentation;
• Environmental and performance testing to qualify hardware for spaceflight, and experience advancing instrument technology readiness levels.

Salary

The position's salary range is $75,000-$125,000, commensurate with the successful applicant's experience and qualifications. The position is contingent on the continued availability of external funding.

Application Instructions

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

Include a curriculum vitae and a cover letter that addresses your experience and why you are interested in the position. Workday will solicit contact information for three letters of reference after applications are submitted and the review process begins. Please contact Dr. Philip Johnson at issti@american.edu if you have any questions.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options .

Other Details

• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
  
  
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• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
  
  
• American University is an E-Verify employer.
  
  

Current American University Employees

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Contact Us

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