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Research Scientist, Magnetometry Investigation Scientist for the NASA Psyche Mission

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MIT - Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge

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Research Scientist, Magnetometry Investigation Scientist for the NASA Psyche Mission

Research Scientist

June 15, 2026 (review begins)

Location

Cambridge

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Type

Contract (1+ years)

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in space physics, plasma physics, planetary magnetism, astrophysics or related
Numerical modeling and programming background
Excellent oral and written communication skills

Research Areas

Psyche Mission Magnetometry
Planetary Magnetism
Magnetosphere Reconstruction
Solar Wind Modeling
Spherical Harmonic Analyses
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Research Scientist, Magnetometry Investigation Scientist for the NASA Psyche Mission

RESEARCH SCIENTIST, MAGNETOMETRY INVESTIGATION SCIENTIST FOR THE NASA PSYCHE MISSION

Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences, to perform feasibility studies of detecting Psyche’s remanent magnetization from orbit including magnetosphere reconstruction, dipole estimation, spherical harmonic analyses and development of predictive tools for solar wind conditions; participate in data processing and the development of the ground data system for the Psyche Magnetometer; and join the Psyche science team, under the direction of the Magnetometry Investigation Lead, Professor Benjamin Weiss. The Psyche mission is NASA’s Discovery mission to explore the largest metal-rich body in the solar system, asteroid (16) Psyche: https://psyche.ssl.berkeley.edu/.

Job Requirements

  • REQUIRED: Ph.D. in space physics, plasma physics, planetary magnetism, astrophysics or a related field with a background in numerical modeling and programming and excellent oral and written communication skills.

Please submit one document containing: cover letter, curriculum vitae, and names and contact information for three referees. Queries may be addressed to: Prof. Benjamin Weiss Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, bpweiss@mit.edu, http://benweiss.mit.edu.

The position will have a duration of least one year with the possibility of extension for multiple years.

Review of the applications will begin on 6/15/2026 but applications will be accepted thereafter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What are the required qualifications for this Research Scientist role?

This position requires a Ph.D. in space physics, plasma physics, planetary magnetism, astrophysics or a related field. Candidates must have a strong background in numerical modeling and programming, along with excellent oral and written communication skills. Explore research jobs for similar opportunities or postdoctoral success tips to prepare your application.

🔬What are the main responsibilities in the Psyche Mission Magnetometry role?

Responsibilities include conducting feasibility studies for detecting Psyche’s remanent magnetization, such as magnetosphere reconstruction, dipole estimation, spherical harmonic analyses, and developing predictive tools for solar wind conditions. You will also handle data processing and ground data system development, joining the Psyche science team under Prof. Benjamin Weiss. Check MIT research jobs for related positions.

📝How do I apply for the Magnetometry Investigation Scientist position at MIT?

Submit one document with your cover letter, curriculum vitae, and names/contact info for three referees. Applications are reviewed starting June 15, 2026, but accepted thereafter. Direct queries to Prof. Benjamin Weiss at bpweiss@mit.edu. Use our free cover letter template and resume template for academic applications.

📅What is the duration and extension possibility for this Psyche Mission role?

The position lasts at least one year with the possibility of multi-year extension, depending on mission needs and performance. This supports long-term involvement in the NASA Psyche Mission, exploring asteroid (16) Psyche. See postdoc jobs for similar extended research roles.

🪐What is the NASA Psyche Mission and its focus on magnetometry?

The NASA Psyche Mission is a Discovery mission to the metal-rich asteroid (16) Psyche. This role focuses on magnetometry investigations, including orbital detection of remanent magnetization. Learn more at the Psyche mission site. Related advice in thriving in research roles.

📧Who should I contact for questions about this MIT research position?

Address queries to Prof. Benjamin Weiss, Magnetometry Investigation Lead, at bpweiss@mit.edu or benweiss.mit.edu. Visit faculty and research jobs for more MIT opportunities.
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