Job Summary
The ORCCA Lab welcomes applications for a postdoctoral researcher. This position will conduct research in spacecraft guidance and navigation for the purpose of development and implementation of advanced on-board guidance and navigation algorithms for spacecraft operating in cislunar space. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerospace engineering, optimal control theory, and convex programming, with demonstrated experience in information-based trajectory planning and multi-sensor state estimation. The role requires expertise in developing algorithms for autonomous spacecraft operations. The candidate will design and optimize guidance strategies to enhance orbital maneuverability in dynamic and uncertain environments. Additionally, the candidate will work closely with mission planning and systems engineering teams to integrate navigation algorithms into flight software and validate performance through testing.
The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
The ORCCA Lab – within CCAR and the Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder – brings together researchers from a wide breadth of backgrounds with the purpose of promoting the utilization and understanding of the Solar System by humankind. We advance the state-of-the-art in astrodynamics, spacecraft autonomy and guidance navigation and control technologies in support of planetary science, space exploration and industry.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
Conducting research to develop cutting edge guidance and navigation algorithms for spacecraft in cis-lunar space.
What We Can Offer
The starting salary range for this position is $75,000-$85,000 annually.
Benefits
The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits , including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder .
Be Statements
Be excited. Be game-changing. Be Boulder.
What We Require
PhD in Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field, with focus in astrodynamics and guidance, navigation, and control of spacecraft.
What You Will Need
Proficiency in programming languages such as Julia, Python, MATLAB, and C++.
What We Would Like You to Have
Research experience in GNC algorithms.
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
- Current Resume/CV
- Cover Letter
- (Optional) Transcripts/Proof of PhD : 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. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit an English-translated version (if applicable) as an Optional attachment.
Additionally, please email a minimum of one letter of recommendation to HR Coordinator Melissa Flores at aerohrhelp@colorado.edu.
Please apply by April 13, 2025 for full consideration.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs .
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.
Posting Contact Information
Posting Contact Name: Boulder Campus Human Resources
Posting Contact Email: Recruiting@colorado.edu