Postdoctoral Fellow, Space Plasma - Department of Physics & Astronomy - West Virginia University Research Corporation

The Department of Physics and Astronomy in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow, Space Plasma.

About the Opportunity

The position will support the research in inner magnetospheric physics by the Tu group, with a particular emphasis on studying and modeling the simultaneous dropout of energetic electrons and protons in Earth’s inner magnetosphere. Incumbent will work on a research project that includes both numerical modeling and data analysis.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• Paid Time off (PTO)
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks

What You'll Do

• Perform numerical modeling on the dynamics of energetic electrons and protons in Earth's inner magnetosphere.
• Analyze field and particle measurements of inner magnetosphere for both model inputs and comparison with simulation results.
• Attend research conferences and read scientific literature to keep abreast of technological advances and current research findings.
• Identify and assist with acquisition of funding from public, private, and governmental sources.
• Assist with development of novel research proposals for sponsor submission.
• Write proposals, papers, and abstracts to attract research funds.
• Search scientific literature to select and modify methods and procedures most appropriate for research goals.
• Oversee research facilities and personnel.
• Assure compliance with research protocols and safety requirements.
• Oversee and direct undergraduate and graduate researchers in the completion of research.
• Write and present research/study status reports for review and use of the Principal Investigator.
• Prepare results of research findings for presentation to colleagues and the sponsor; at professional/technical conferences; and/or, for publication in scientific journals, as directed.

• PhD in Physics, Space Physics, Plasma Physics, or related discipline.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience involving previous research in running and developing physics-based numerical models. 
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience involving previous research in analyzing wave and particles data.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Expertise in scientific programming, preferably in FORTRAN and/or C.
• Demonstrated ability to pursue independent research. 
• Ability to work as part of a team. 
• Skilled at using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
• Skilled at identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
• Ability to document and present the results of research.
• Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format as well as use original or innovative techniques or style due to the nature of the scientific content of the material being presented.
• Ability to make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial or complex topics to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems. 
• Ability to deal with nonverbal symbolism (formulas, scientific equations, graphs, etc.). 
• Ability to deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables. 
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form.

To apply, please upload 1) a cover letter; 2) curriculum vitae; 3) and a list of three references with complete contact information.

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

Creating an inclusive, engaged, and dynamic environment is core to WVURC’s mission. We welcome candidates who can contribute a range of ideas, approaches and experiences.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We value diversity among its employees and invites applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.

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