Postdoctoral Scholar

Job Description

The Opportunity

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), Daytona Beach Campus, invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Scholar position in the field of magnetospheric physics and space instrumentation. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research focused on the design and development of a miniature particle detector, as well as the analysis of satellite observations and numerical simulation results related to the Earth’s magnetosphere and space plasma environment.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a collaborative research environment at one of the world’s leading aerospace-focused universities.

Position Responsibilities:

• Participate in the design, development, testing, and integration of a miniature particle detector for space applications.
• Analyze satellite measurements and numerical simulation results in the field of magnetospheric physics and space plasma science.
• Contribute to the development of data analysis tools and scientific interpretation of observational and modeling results.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present research findings at scientific conferences.
• Assist with proposal development and contribute to externally funded research activities.
• Collaborate with faculty, students, and external research partners on interdisciplinary research initiatives.

Mentoring and Career Development:

This position includes a structured mentoring plan designed to support the professional growth of an early-career postdoctoral scientist and foster the development of independent research capabilities.

Mentoring activities will include:

• Weekly one-on-one meetings focused on research progress, manuscript preparation, proposal development, and career planning.
• Regular group meetings to encourage collaboration, scientific communication, and presentation skills.
• Guidance in building a competitive research portfolio, securing external funding, leading research projects, and publishing high-impact research.

Career development support will include:

• Periodic discussions to define long-term career goals and identify funding opportunities.
• Collaborative establishment of short- and medium-term milestones, including manuscript submissions and grant applications.
• Opportunities to take increasing ownership of research activities, including project leadership, collaboration management, and mentoring junior trainees.

The overall goal of this mentoring framework is to support the successful transition of the postdoctoral scholar toward research independence and long-term career advancement.

Embry-Riddle: Celebrating 100 Years of Leadership in Aviation and Aerospace 

As Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University marks its Centennial, we proudly celebrate 100 years of advancing the future of flight and aerospace education. With vibrant residential campuses in Daytona Beach, FL, and Prescott, AZ — and a Worldwide network spanning nearly 120 global locations — Embry-Riddle stands as the world’s largest aviation and aerospace university.

For a century, we have led innovation in STEM education, serving more than 30,000 students around the globe. Our cutting-edge programs in Applied Science, Aviation, Business, Technology, Engineering, Safety, Security, and Space empower the next generation of leaders to shape the future of flight, exploration, and discovery.

As we launch our next century, we remain committed to excellence, innovation, and preparing graduates who will transform industries and redefine what is possible. 

Click here to take a virtual tour of the Daytona Beach Campus!

Perks Await You at Embry-Riddle!   

• Generous Time Off: Enjoy 9+ paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day.
• Tuition Coverage: Get 100% tuition coverage for yourself for one undergraduate and one graduate degree, and discounted rates for your spouse and dependent children up to age 26.
• Retirement Contributions: ERAU contributes 6% of your base salary to your retirement plan and offers a 4% matching contribution – with no vesting period.
• Personal Leave: Relax with 12 days of personal leave for non-exempt employees or 18 days for exempt full-time employees in your first year. 

Qualifications

Required Education and Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Space Physics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field by the start date of employment.
• Demonstrated background in space physics, magnetospheric physics, plasma physics, or related disciplines.
• Experience with scientific data analysis and/or numerical simulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with space instrumentation or particle detector development.
• Familiarity with satellite data analysis techniques.
• Experience with numerical modeling and scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, IDL, C/C++).
• Record of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Application process/requirements

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

To submit your application for this opportunity, please visit the Embry-Riddle Career Site and search for requisition number R311531. Please attach all relevant materials to your application when you apply online. Complete submissions include:

• Cover letter
• Full CV
• 2-page Research statement
• Contact information for at least three professional references (please note that references may be contacted as part of the interview/screening process)

Current Embry-Riddle employees: Please apply directly through the ERAU Employee Hub Central application within Workday.

Embry-Riddle is committed to fostering a workplace where all individuals are valued and respected. We strive to ensure that all faculty, staff, and students are treated fairly and provided equal opportunities for employment, advancement, compensation, training, and other benefits of employment. Embry-Riddle makes employment decisions — including hiring, promotions, compensation, and other terms of employment — based on individual merit, qualifications, and abilities. Embry Riddle is strongly opposed to discrimination and harassment, and such behavior is prohibited by university policy. Embry Riddle does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, veteran status, predisposing genetic characteristics, age, religion, or pregnancy status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law, in its employment, educational programs, admissions policies, financial aid, or other school-administered programs or activities. For further information, please visit our website.

Embry-Riddle is not seeking assistance from staffing or recruitment agencies. All agencies are directed to contact [email protected] and should not reach out to hiring managers or staff.