2025 Curation Scientist - NASA Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

Building on The Aerospace Corporation's reputation as a trusted, impartial advisor with integrity and dedication to mission success, the Civil Systems Group (CSG) combines deep technical expertise with market-leading innovation to help our customers solve complex systems engineering and integration challenges. CSG is organized by core customer-facing lines of business to manage and grow programs within NASA, NOAA, and the NNSA, while extending our capabilities to other civilian federal government agencies fully integrated within Aerospace rules, regulations, processes, values, and behaviors.

Within the CSG, the Human Exploration and Space Flight (HESF) Division and Civil Space Operation’s Division supports our NASA customer in all aspects of human space flight (HSF) and deep space exploration program office activities. We are looking for a  Curation Scientist, supporting NASA’s Astromaterials Acquisition and Curation Office in the Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science (ARES) Division at Johnson Space Center. ARES is at the forefront of scientific exploration, managing NASA’s nine current astromaterials collections and leading the curation planning efforts for the return of future samples. The global scientific community conducts cutting-edge research on these astromaterials to unravel the mysteries of the universe and advance our understanding of planetary formation, evolution, and potential for life beyond Earth.

As a Curation Scientist, you will assist with the curation efforts of the NASA astromaterials collections, overseeing the documentation, characterization, storage and dissemination of these valuable materials. You will work closely with a team of scientists, engineers, and researchers to ensure the proper handling, documentation, and sharing of astromaterials and associated research data with other institutions and the broader scientific community.

Work Model

This is a full time position based in Houston at Johnson Space Center that may allow for occasional situational telework.

What You’ll Be Doing

Sample Curation and Management:

• Develop and implement comprehensive protocols for the documentation, handling, storage, and tracking of extraterrestrial samples in accordance with NASA guidelines and requirements.
• Oversee the maintenance and organization of sample collections, including lunar rocks, small bodies, and other astromaterials, ensuring their integrity and security.

Research Coordination:

• Collaborate with scientists and researchers within ARES, other NASA divisions, and the global scientific community to facilitate access to sample collections for scientific investigation.
• Assist with planning for emerging collections (e.g., provide support for return of lunar samples by the Artemis campaign).

Data Management and Sharing:

• Establish and maintain databases and information systems to catalog sample metadata, analytical data, and research findings, ensuring accessibility and transparency for the scientific community and satisfaction of NASA requirements.
• Facilitate the exchange of astromaterial samples and sample characterization data with domestic and international partners, including academia, research institutions, and museums, while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements.

Public Outreach and Education:

• Participate in outreach activities aimed at promoting public awareness and engagement in the astromaterials collections and associated research, including public lectures, museum exhibitions, and educational programs.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• MS or PhD degree from an accredited college/university program in
  in planetary science, geology, astrophysics, or a related scientific or engineering field.

  (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months) 

• 0 -1 year of industry experience

• Experience in sample curation, laboratory management, and/or research coordination, preferably in a NASA or similar research environment.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques such as electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry for the analysis of astromaterials.
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