Postdoctoral Researcher in Atmospheric Instrument Development

A postdoctoral researcher is sought at the Planetary Volatiles Lab (PVL) within the Centre for Research in Earth and Space Science (CRESS) at York University in Toronto, Canada to:

1. Support the development of a novel trace-gas spectrometer (MAGE) for flight on a stratospheric balloon in 2024 with the goal of advancing this instrument towards flight on a planetary space mission.
2. Lead investigations into planetary atmospheres using spacecraft/experimental data and/or numerical modeling
3. Support activities within the Planetary Volatiles Laboratory research group.

The MAGE spectrometer (e.g. Sapers et al., 2022 Low-Cost Science Mission Concepts for Martian Exploration, abstract 5050) is based around a commercial OA-ICOS spectrometer used on Earth to measure methane and other trace gasses. York University has partnered with the manufacturer and is providing scientific leadership in the development of this instrument towards a planetary instrument. The successful candidate will be responsible for integrating the prototype spectrometer into a package that will be able to collect data in the Mars-like environment of the terrestrial arctic stratosphere.

This work will be supervised by Prof. John E. Moores, York Research Chair in Space Exploration. The ideal candidate will be less than 3 years from receipt of their PhD at the start of employment, however, candidates at later stages of their career will still receive consideration. The successful applicant must be willing to relocate to Toronto.

Duration and Start Date: The initial term of employment will be for one year, starting no earlier than May 1st, 2023 and no later than September 1st, 2023, with an option to extend the term based on performance and if funding permits. 

The Planetary Volatiles Lab (PVL) is made up a diverse group of individuals from different backgrounds. We believe that our varied perspectives spark our creativity, allowing us to produce innovative science. As such, we especially encourage applications from women, members of underrepresented groups and those who have followed non-traditional academic pathways.

How to Apply: Please send jmoores@yorku.ca (1) a detailed C.V., (2) the names and contact information for two references and (3) one or two examples of published work that you have led. For full consideration, please send these materials by March 1st, 2023, however, this position will remain open until filled.