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Postdoctoral Research Scientist I

**Requisition Number:** 68121

**Location:** Boulder Colorado

**Employment Type:** Research Faculty

**Schedule:** Full Time

**Posting Close Date:** 23-Nov-2025

Date Posted:

Job Summary

The Colorado Ultraviolet Spectroscopy Program (CUSP) at the University of Colorado's Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) is excited to welcome a new Research Scientist to join our dynamic and collaborative community.

CUSP is a broad team of approximately 30 scientists, engineers, and students dedicated to advancing the frontiers of ultraviolet spectroscopy-spanning observations, modeling, and instrument design. Our culture values curiosity, creativity, and teamwork, and we are committed to developing early career researchers to their fullest potential.

This position focuses on mission development, particularly small satellite programs and instrument prototypes. Our active projects include several SmallSat, CubeSat, and sounding rocket missions, with science goals such as exoplanet host star characterization (MANTIS), the development of the first UV integral-field spectrographs (INFUSE, MOBIUS, UMIS, SUMO, MaGPIE), and innovative concepts for high-resolution imaging spectroscopy of the circumgalactic medium of galaxies (JUNIPER).

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to one or more of these active programs and to propose and lead new initiatives-either in collaboration with our team or as a principal investigator. We encourage applications from individuals with a range of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives who are excited to contribute to our mission.

This position is initially for one year, with the potential for extension and career advancement as additional funding becomes available. We look forward to welcoming a new colleague who shares our enthusiasm for discovery, collaboration, and innovation in space science.

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) (https://lasp.colorado.edu/) 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

+ Your primary initial role will be on the MANTIS SmallSat, a combined extreme to near-ultraviolet spectrograph containing the first ever telescope and grating of its kind. MANTIS is designed to measure the ultraviolet output and activity of low mass stars to better understand exoplanet habitability. MANTIS will be at the beginning phase of integration and testing in mid-2026, with needed assistance in optical calibration, science and operations planning, and general pre-flight testing. This experience will prepare you to take on a leadership role on future SmallSats as they enter a similar phase, as well as potentially leading new proposals for instruments, technologies, and full missions, with mentorship and assistance from the entire CUSP team.

What You Should Know

+ The CUSP group operates in an export-controlled facility. Candidates do not need to be US citizens or permanent residents, however there may be certain restrictions for non-US persons that can complicate some activities.

+ As the CUSP team works in large teams in a hands-on environment, on-site work is required for the majority of the time. Remote work is possible for short periods.

What We Can Offer

+ $86,800.00 - $96,800.00 annual.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder (https://www.colorado.edu/) , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package (https://www.colorado.edu/jobs/benefits) 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. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage (https://advantage.cu.edu/campus/cu-boulder) program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder.

What We Require

+ A PhD by May 2026 in a scientific or engineering field.

+ Prior experience with instrument building or extensive use of telescopes (ground or space), mechanical or electrical design, or other laboratory experience is welcome.

What You Will Need

+ A background in astronomy or astrophysics, and a record of problem solving and learning new skills as needed.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. Resume/CV

2. Cover Letter

3. 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 (if applicable) as an Optional document. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until **11/23/2025.** Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email.

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.

To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Postdoctoral-Research-Scientist-I/68121 (https://apptrkr.com/6670263)

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The University of Colorado does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, political affiliation, or political philosophy. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.