Postbaccalaureate Position in the Gravitational Astrophysics Laboratory at NASA Goddard Space Flight

Applications are now being accepted for a short-term postbaccalaureate research position to support the Gravitational Astrophysics Laboratory at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD. The position is funded by Southeastern Universities Research Association (SURA) through the Center for Research and Exploration in Space Science and Technology II (CRESST II).

You will be joining an active and collaborative research team at the forefront of theoretical and computational astrophysics. Our group specializes in modeling neutron stars and pulsars using multiwavelength observational data, primarily from Fermi and NICER, paired with advanced simulations and inference frameworks. We foster a dynamic environment where post-bacs, graduate students, postdocs, and senior scientists work together on cutting-edge problems in relativistic astrophysics. The selected candidate will work with Dr. Constantinos Kalapotharakos.

Join our efforts to explore the extreme physics of neutron stars and pulsars, utilizing data from Fermi and NICER alongside state-of-the-art computational tools. These include relativistic magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), particle-in-cell (PIC), and radiation transport codes, as well as statistical frameworks such as Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) and machine learning for efficient parameter estimation and model emulation. Projects include modeling pulsar particle acceleration and inferring neutron star parameters from observational data.

We seek candidates who are recent or soon-to-be graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in astronomy, physics, computer science, or a related field. Strong computational skills are essential. Experience with lower-level programming languages such as Fortran or C, or with machine learning techniques, is a plus but not required. This opportunity is ideal for individuals planning to apply to graduate school and looking to gain significant research experience in the interim.

To apply, each applicant should submit a cover letter describing personal background and interest in the project, Curriculum Vitae, unofficial transcript, and contact information for two references through the CRESST II Breezy application platform. After applications are reviewed, additional support materials may be requested which may include a work sample in the form of a report, poster, or coding examples. The deadline to apply is Sunday, May 11^th.

This is a full-time position working on-site at NASA/GSFC for 40 hours/week. The position offers a competitive annual salary of $47,500 for bachelor’s graduates and $56,400 for master’s graduates, along with comprehensive benefits. The desired start date ranges from July - September 2025, with an initial employment term of one year that may be extended for one additional year contingent on performance and availability of funds. For general questions, contact the CRESST II Office (cresstoffice(at)gmail.com). SURA is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply. EOE/M/F/D/V.