Logo
ORAU

Gravitational Physics in Space: Theory and Experiment

ORAU, Pasadena, California, United States, 91122

Save Job

Gravitational Physics in Space: Theory and Experiment

Join to apply for the

Gravitational Physics in Space: Theory and Experiment

role at

ORAU Gravitational Physics in Space: Theory and Experiment

1 month ago Be among the first 25 applicants Join to apply for the

Gravitational Physics in Space: Theory and Experiment

role at

ORAU Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Reference Code

0016-NPP-NOV25-JPL-Astrophys

How To Apply

All applications must be submitted in Zintellect

Please visit the NASA Postdoctoral Program website for application instructions and requirements: How to Apply | NASA Postdoctoral Program (orau.org)

A complete application to the NASA Postdoctoral Program includes:

Research proposal Three letters of recommendation Official doctoral transcript documents

Application Deadline

11/1/2025 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone

Description

About the

NASA Postdoctoral Program

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. These one- to three-year fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.

Description:

Our research program is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of gravitational physics, relativistic astrophysics, and precision navigation technologies, with a strategic emphasis on enabling transformative scientific discoveries and mission capabilities. Core research areas include:

Gravitational and Fundamental Physics: Developing theoretical and experimental frameworks to test general relativity, alternative theories of gravity, and fundamental physical laws through high-precision measurements and advanced modeling in relativistic celestial mechanics, astrophysics, and cosmology. High-Precision Spacecraft Navigation: Advancing models of relativistic gravitational and non-gravitational forces, solar system dynamics, and state-of-the-art algorithms for spacecraft trajectory prediction, state reconstruction, and deep-space mission navigation. Optical Astrometry and Laser Metrology: Pioneering high-precision astrometry techniques and laser-based metrology systems to achieve unprecedented accuracy in ranging, tracking, and observational platforms for both near-Earth and deep-space applications. High-Power Laser Technologies: Developing coherent beam combination, high-power laser ranging, and power transmission systems to support advanced sensing, communication, and propulsion solutions for space missions. Detection and Characterization of Near-Earth and Interstellar Objects (NEOs and ISOs): Innovating optical sensor designs and synthetic tracking methodologies to identify, track, and characterize faint, fast-moving objects, enabling proactive planetary defense and interstellar science. Solar Gravitational Lens (SGL) Exploration: Designing mission architectures and technological frameworks for direct, high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets using the solar gravitational lens, providing unprecedented observational capabilities for distant planetary systems. Solar Sailing and High-Velocity Propulsion: Investigating advanced solar sailing concepts for achieving high-speed transit velocities, with applications for interplanetary and interstellar exploration, emphasizing scalable, low-mass propulsion solutions. Gravitational Microlensing and Astrophysical Observations: Exploiting gravitational microlensing to study planetary and astrophysical systems, enhancing our understanding of the distribution and properties of distant celestial objects. High-Precision Science with GNSS: Leveraging Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) for advanced scientific applications, including time transfer, Earth observation, and spacecraft tracking with sub-centimeter accuracy.

These efforts are designed to address critical challenges in space exploration, providing solutions that bridge fundamental science and mission technology. Our work supports the long-term vision of advancing humanity’s reach into the cosmos, transforming our understanding of the universe, and enabling next-generation space missions.

Location:

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Pasadena, California

Field of Science: Astrophysics

Advisors:

Slava G. Turyshev

Slava.G.Turyshev@jpl.nasa.gov

818-393-2600

Applications with citizens from Designated Countries will not be accepted at this time, unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the United States.

A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at: https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/export-control.

Eligibility is currently open to:

U.S. Citizens; U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR); Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J-1 visa status; and, Applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. at the time of application with 1) a valid EAD card and 2) I-485 or I-589 forms in pending status

Questions about this opportunity?

Please email npp@orau.org

Point of Contact

Mikeala

Eligibility Requirements

Degree: Doctoral Degree.

Seniority level

Seniority level Internship Employment type

Employment type Full-time Job function

Job function Research, Analyst, and Information Technology Industries Government Administration Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at ORAU by 2x Sign in to set job alerts for “Physics Specialist” roles.

Don't see a job that matches your experience? Submit your resume here!

Research Scientist - Expression of Interest

Los Angeles, CA $100,000.00-$450,000.00 3 weeks ago Los Angeles, CA $141,000.00-$202,000.00 2 weeks ago Game Research & Development Intern, Engine Research

Glendale, CA $109,400.00-$168,700.00 1 week ago Software Engineer, Game Support, Game Studio

Physics Program - Teaching Assistant (Physics Lab) - FWS (2025/2026)

Science Subtitute (Fall '25, Winter '26; 80% FTE)

West Hollywood, CA $150,000.00-$200,000.00 1 week ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.

#J-18808-Ljbffr