NASA ARES Curation Planning Engineer

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 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 Curation Planning Engineer (Research Scientist- Materials 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 Curation Planning Engineer, you will assist with the curation planning efforts for the future return of samples to the NASA Astro materials collections during the Artemis missions. You will work closely with a team of scientists, engineers, and researchers to plan the proper handling, processing, storage, documentation, and sharing of these samples and associated research data with other institutions and the broader scientific community.

Work Model

This is a full-time position based in Houston at Johnson Space Center, offering an onsite work model that combines 5 regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as the business needs allow.

What You'll Be Doing

• Establish curation plans in alignment with the Artemis campaign timeline, mission requirements, priorities, and capabilities
• Develop and implement comprehensive protocols for the documentation, handling, storage, and tracking of extraterrestrial samples in accordance with NASA guidelines and requirements
• Once acquired, oversee the maintenance and organization of sample collections, including lunar rocks, small bodied objects, and other Astro materials, ensuring their integrity and security
• Collaborate with scientists and researchers within ARES, other NASA divisions, and the global scientific community to facilitate access to sample collections for scientific investigation
• 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
• Develop strategies for the exchange of in-demand astromaterial samples and sample characterization data with domestic and international partners, including academia, research institutions, and museums, while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements
• Participate in outreach activities aimed at promoting public awareness and engagement in the astromaterials collections and associated research, including public lectures, museum exhibitions, and educational programs

What You Need to be Successful - Research Scientist- Materials Science

Minimum Requirements :

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these :

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Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include :

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