Postdoctoral Research Scientist

University of Colorado
paid time off, tuition assistance
United States, Colorado, Boulder
Sep 10, 2026
Requisition Number: 74779 Location: Boulder, Colorado City Boulder State Colorado Employment Type: Research Faculty Schedule: Full-Time Posting Close Date: 17-Sep-2026 Date Posted: 10-Sep-2026 Close All Job Summary The Space Plasma Group at the University of Colorado's Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) is seeking to fill 1 research scientist position in space plasma physics. We are seeking researchers at the Research Scientist 1 (RS1, postdoc-equivalent) level. The CU/LASP Space Plasma Group conducts a diverse research program encompassing instrumentation, data analysis, simulation, and theoretical studies of space plasma physics in a variety of environments, including planetary magnetospheres and ionospheres as well as the solar wind. Research duties include conducting studies of wave-particle interactions and other plasma phenomena in heliospheric environments. The successful candidate will collaborate with SPG group members and seek to develop an independent research program. This position will include data analysis or simulation/modeling investigations using data from NASA's Parker Solar Probe mission (PSP), and the Van Allen Probes mission, to address fundamental questions about wave-particle interactions and other space plasma phenomena. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Who We Are Founded a decade before NASA, the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at the University of Colorado Boulder is revolutionizing human understanding of the cosmos. LASP is deeply committed to inspiring and educating the next generation of space explorers. From enabling the first exploratory rocket measurements of Earth's upper atmosphere to trailblazing observations of every planet in the solar system, LASP is at the forefront of solar, planetary and space physics research, space-weather monitoring, and the search for evidence of habitable worlds. LASP advances scientific discovery and inspires the next generation through research, innovation, and education in space sciences. We employ over 700 scientists, engineers, support personnel, and students that work closely to cultivate creative ideas and explore novel solutions to make the impossible possible. LASP is dedicated to building and maintaining a unique synergism of expertise in space science, engineering, and spacecraft operations. Through research projects, LASP participates actively in the training of the future leaders of space research and helps the University of Colorado to educate students with valued technical and scientific skills. Development and use of innovative technologies and continuing participation in new research initiatives ensures a strong leadership role for LASP into the future. LASP is proud of our work environment that supports employee creativity and productivity and offers opportunities for a broad range of experiences. Further information about LASP can be found here: https://lasp.colorado.edu/home/. What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be The applicant is expected to carry out analysis of data from the Parker Solar Probe and Van Allen Probes spacecraft. Analysis of plasma wave data and comparison of data with predictions from plasma wave theory for both ion acoustic waves and whistler-mode plasma waves. The applicant is expected to write scientific publications based on this data analysis and attend conferences to present recent work to the broader scientific community. The applicant may supervise undergraduate students. Other duties as assigned. What You Should Know Onsite presence required at least 4 days per week. The position is 1 year, extendable for 1 additional year pending acceptable performance during the first year. What We Can Offer $86,800.00 - $94,300.00 per year. Benefits At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. In fact, CU Boulder has been named one of Forbes' America's Best Large Employers, ranking #4 among large employers in Colorado and #28 among universities nationwide. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program. Be Statements Be ambitious. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder. What We Require PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or related field. What You Will Need Experience in scientific programming, Python preferred. Experience conducting research on plasma wave physics in the space environment. Demonstrated experience creating clear and concise scientific writing for publication. What We Would Like You to Have Experience conducting research on VLF plasma waves in Earth's inner magnetosphere. Demonstrated experience examining spacecraft data from plasma wave instruments. Special Instructions To apply, please submit the following materials: Resume or CV. Cover Letter. Optional: Reference Letter (Not Confidential) (Optional) Transcripts/Proof of Degree: If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources Department using an approved online vendor. However, if your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit an English-translated version as an Optional document. Please apply by 9/17/2026 for consideration. Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs. In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.