National Security Engineering Division - Space Hardware Postdoctoral Researcher

We have an opening for a Space Hardware Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct research in the areas of structural mechanics, and engineering design of advanced materials for space applications. You will contribute to cutting-edge research focused on developing the next generation of large aperture optical space payloads, with a focus on novel structures, mechanisms and advanced materials. This position is in Advanced Space Development Group (ASDG) in the National Security Engineering Division (NSED), within the Engineering Directorate.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will 

• Conduct fundamental research in structural dynamics of novel materials for space payload applications.
• Develop custom structural and dynamic finite element simulations.
• Research and advise the Space Hardware group on research direction for novel materials.
• Contribute to the conception, design and execution of experiments related to novel material development and characterization.
• Support lab experiments to test and characterize mechanical response of novel materials for space applications.
• Communicate and collaborate with engineers, scientists and physicists supporting space payload development.
• Develop new computational tools for high performance computing studies.
• Support proposal development for the Space Hardware group.
• Design research plans, generate and analyze results, publish findings in peer- reviewed journals.
• Present research outcomes at conferences, seminars, and technical meetings.
• Contribute to technical reports for sponsors and stakeholders.
• Travel as needed to coordinate with research collaborators and visit field sites.
• Perform other duties as assigned.