Postdoctoral Fellow - Applied Physics and Geology

The Planetary Exploration group is looking for two Post Doctoral fellows to work on various aspects of the Alpha-Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS). The APXS is an in-situ x-ray spectrometer for elemental analysis with a long history of successful deployments on Mars Pathfinder and the Mars Exploration Rover missions. An improved APXS will be launched on the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) end of 2011.

Both positions are funded by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to investigate future APXS instrument and methodology improvements and their application for possible lunar missions.

One position is for a scientist with a strong geology background to investigate science objectives achievable with combined elemental and mineralogical instruments. The applicant must have a solid knowledge of geology methods and the physics background and how to adapt the methods under the constraints of space, especially lunar missions.

The second position is for an applied physicist with a strong background in instrument development and nuclear spectroscopy methods, like x-ray spectroscopy, x-ray detectors and their read-out electronics.  Hands on experience in XRF, PIXE or other related nuclear spectroscopy methods and radiation physics is required.

Both positions are for 1 year, but might be extended beyond that to enable the successful applicants to participate in the surface operation of the MSL APXS after landing in the summer of 2012.  Salary commensurate with qualifications.

To apply, send a CV, including a description of research interests and the contact details of three referees, to Prof. Ralf Gellert, Physics Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1 (rgellert@uoguelph.ca).   

Applications will be accepted until April 25, 2011 or until a suitable candidate is recruited.

The successful applicant must be eligible to apply for registration under the Canadian Controlled Goods Program.