Curation Expert for NASA Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. Building on The Aerospace Corporation's reputation as a trusted, impartial advisor with integrity and dedication to mission success, the Civil Systems Group (CSG) combines deep technical expertise with market-leading innovation to help our customers solve complex systems engineering and integration challenges. CSG is organized by core customer-facing lines of business to manage and grow programs within NASA, NOAA, and the NNSA, while extending our capabilities to other civilian federal government agencies fully integrated within Aerospace rules, regulations, processes, values, and behaviors. Within the CSG, the Human Exploration and Space Flight (HESF) Division and Civil Space Operation’s Division supports our NASA customer in all aspects of human space flight (HSF) and deep space exploration program office activities. We are looking for a Project Engineer- Research Scientist, Material Science, supporting NASA’s Astro materials Acquisition and Curation Office in the Astro materials Research and Exploration Science (ARES) Division at Johnson Space Center. ARES is at the forefront of scientific exploration, managing NASA’s nine current Astro materials collections and leading the curation planning efforts for the return of future samples. The global scientific community conducts cutting-edge research on these Astro materials to unravel the mysteries of the universe and advance our understanding of planetary formation, evolution, and potential for life beyond Earth. As a Project Engineer- Research Scientist, Material Science, you will assist with the curation efforts of the NASA Astro materials collections, overseeing the documentation, characterization, storage, and dissemination of these valuable materials. You will work closely with a team of scientists, engineers, and researchers to ensure the proper handling, documentation, and sharing of Astro materials and associated research data with other institutions and the broader scientific community. Work Model This is a full-time position based at Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX, offering a hybrid work model that combines 4 regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as the business needs allow. What You’ll Be Doing Sample Curation and Management: Develop and implement comprehensive protocols for the documentation, handling, storage, and tracking of extraterrestrial samples in accordance with NASA guidelines and requirements. Oversee the maintenance and organization of sample collections, including lunar rocks, small bodies, and other Astro materials, ensuring their integrity and security. Research Coordination: Collaborate with scientists and researchers within ARES, other NASA divisions, and the global scientific community to facilitate access to sample collections for scientific investigation. Assist with planning for emerging collections (e.g., provide support for return of lunar samples by the Artemis campaign). Data Management and Sharing: Establish and maintain databases and information systems to catalog sample metadata, analytical data, and research findings, ensuring accessibility and transparency for the scientific community and satisfaction of NASA requirements. Facilitate the exchange of Astro material samples and sample characterization data with domestic and international partners, including academia, research institutions, and museums, while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements. Public Outreach and Education: Participate in outreach activities aimed at promoting public awareness and engagement in the Astro materials collections and associated research, including public lectures, museum exhibitions, and educational programs. What You Need to be Successful - Project Engineer- Research Scientist, Material Science. Minimum Requirements: Bachelor of Science degree in planetary science, geology, astrophysics, or a related scientific/ engineering field. At least 6 years of experience in sample curation, laboratory management, and/or research coordination, preferably in a NASA or similar research environment. Proficiency in analytical techniques such as electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry for the analysis of Astro materials. Experience in grant writing, project management, or strategic planning, showcasing your ability to secure funding and drive impactful research initiatives. Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with teams and stakeholders. Knowledge of planetary geology, cosmochemistry, and astrobiology, with a passion for advancing our understanding of the solar system and beyond. Willing to travel domestically/internationally 1-2 times per year This position may require the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: Master’s or PhD degree in planetary science, geology, astrophysics, or a related scientific/ engineering field. More than 6 years of experience in sample curation, laboratory management, and/or research coordination, preferably in a NASA or similar research environment. Demonstrated leadership experience in managing scientific research programs or laboratory facilities, with a track record of fostering innovation and excellence in team environments. Proven expertise in advanced analytical techniques and instrumentation relevant to the study of Astro materials, such as isotopic analysis, X-ray diffraction, or laser ablation. Strong publication record in peer-reviewed scientific journals, demonstrating your contributions to the advancement of planetary science and exploration. Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: Operate Strategically Lead Change   Engage with Impact   Foster Innovation   Deliver Results Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include: Comprehensive health care and wellness plans Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire Flexible spending accounts Variable pay program for exceptional contributions Relocation assistance Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career Education assistance programs A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation. Equal Opportunity Commitment The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. Right Place The Aerospace Corporation has over 26 locations nationwide, which allows us to build a workforce that will nurture the best ideas, and generate the most novel innovations and solutions to our nation’s toughest space enterprise challenges. Right Path Aerospace covers all stages of the space lifecycle, from concept to operations. We believe our people are our most valuable resource and that’s why we propel our employees forward in their careers through ongoing education, training, and professional development. Right Purpose We can all serve a mission much greater than ourselves, and at Aerospace that is exactly what we do. By hiring the industry’s most preeminent scientists and engineers, Aerospace advances emerging technologies that protect some of the most critical missions on Earth and above it. Return to the Aerospace Careers site. Aerospace employees working in organizations with technical responsibilities are required to obtain a Security Clearance. U.S. citizenship is required for those positions.