Technical Staff - Space Environment Applications Physicist

The MIT Lincoln Laboratory Applied Space Systems Group develops a wide variety of sensor systems for detecting, tracking, and characterizing natural and man-made phenomena.  The group has significant mission expertise in short-term and long-term environmental monitoring applications.  With a focus on prototyping end-to-end systems, the Applied Space Systems group has deep technical expertise that spans a wide range, including architecture definition, physical modeling, sensor design, performance analysis, algorithm development, data processing, and operations.  The group seeks physicists, space physicists, astronomers, applied mathematicians, electrical engineers, computer engineers and those with related experience who have interest in developing cutting edge remote sensing technologies and applications.

 

Examples of Applied Space Systems Group projects include:

• The NASA Time-Resolved Observations of Precipitation structure and storm Intensity with a Constellation of Smallsats (TROPICS) mission
• Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Series
• Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS)
• Applied Space Weather

Job Description

There is an increasing national need to understand the space environment and the impacts of variability on the operational environment of satellites and HF communications that rely on the ionosphere. The successful candidate will support efforts to develop and integrate models of the space environment to improve the performance of radar, communication, surveillance and environmental monitoring systems. Experience in space weather modeling with specific applications to either ionospheric radio frequency propagation OR radiation effects on space systems is required. The candidate should have a strong understanding of plasma physics, radiation effects, numerical modeling, and data processing and assimilation methods. An understanding of signal processing algorithms and the dynamics of the heliosphere-magnetosphere-ionosphere-thermosphere system is preferred. Experience with Microsoft Office products, MATLAB and Python is necessary. Excellent written and oral communications and interpersonal skills are mandatory. A demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage programs is preferred.  Experience working in the defense industry and with government sponsors is desirable. The successful candidate will work closely with the group office to identify and pursue business development opportunities for the space environments portfolio.

Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Space Physics, Electrical Engineering, Astrophysics, Astronomy, or related area is preferred. In lieu of a Ph.D., an MS with a minimum of 5 years of directly related experience will be considered.
• Subject matter expertise in ionospheric applications or space radiation
• Experience leading research and development teams
• Strong oral and written technical communications

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include: 

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• A range of work-life balance options
• ... and much more!  

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