Type: Full-Time
Salary: $86,800 – $96,800 per year
Posted: 10/25/2025
Category: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Requisition Number: 68121
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Employment Type: Research Faculty
Schedule: Full-Time
Posting Close Date: November 23, 2025
Date Posted: October 23, 2025
Job Summary
The Colorado Ultraviolet Spectroscopy Program (CUSP) at the University of Colorado’s Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) invites applications for a Research Scientist position.
CUSP is a team of approximately 30 scientists, engineers, and students dedicated to advancing the frontiers of ultraviolet spectroscopy, spanning observations, modeling, and instrument design. The group values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, and is committed to supporting the growth of early-career researchers.
This position focuses on mission development, particularly small satellite programs and instrument prototypes. Current projects include multiple SmallSat, CubeSat, and sounding rocket missions, such as:
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MANTIS (exoplanet host star characterization)
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INFUSE, MOBIUS, UMIS, SUMO, MaGPIE (UV integral-field spectrographs)
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JUNIPER (high-resolution imaging spectroscopy of the circumgalactic medium)
The selected candidate will have opportunities to:
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Contribute to existing projects,
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Propose and lead new initiatives,
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Serve as principal investigator on future missions.
This is a one-year position with potential for extension and career advancement based on performance and funding.
About LASP
Founded a decade before NASA, the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at the University of Colorado Boulder is a global leader in space research.
LASP conducts pioneering work in solar, planetary, and space physics, as well as space-weather monitoring and the search for habitable worlds. The lab employs more than 700 scientists, engineers, and students who collaborate across disciplines to explore the cosmos.
For more information, visit: https://lasp.colorado.edu/home/
Key Responsibilities
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Contribute to the MANTIS SmallSat mission, focused on measuring ultraviolet emissions from low-mass stars to study exoplanet habitability.
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Support optical calibration, science and operations planning, and pre-flight testing during the integration phase (mid-2026).
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Take on leadership roles in future SmallSat missions.
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Develop and propose new instrumentation, technologies, and missions, with mentorship from senior CUSP scientists.
Additional Information
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CUSP operates in an export-controlled facility. While U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is not required, some restrictions may apply to non-U.S. persons.
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The position involves on-site work, though short-term remote work may be possible.
Salary and Benefits
Annual Salary: $86,800 – $96,800
The University of Colorado Boulder offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
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Medical, dental, and retirement plans
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Generous paid time off
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Tuition assistance for employees and dependents
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ECO Pass for local transit
Learn more about employee programs through the CU Advantage Program.
Qualifications
Required:
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Ph.D. (by May 2026) in a scientific or engineering field
Preferred:
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Experience with instrument building or use of ground- or space-based telescopes
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Mechanical or electrical design experience
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Hands-on laboratory or field experience
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Strong background in astronomy or astrophysics
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Evidence of problem-solving skills and ability to learn new techniques
Desired Attributes:
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Practical experience with hands-on work (lab or hobbyist)
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Creative, self-motivated, and adaptable attitude
Application Instructions
To apply, submit the following materials through the official CU Boulder Careers portal (applications via email will not be accepted):
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Resume/CV
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Cover Letter
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Reference Letter (Non-Confidential)
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(Optional) Transcripts or Proof of Degree
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If your degree was earned outside the U.S., include an English translation.
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Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until November 23, 2025.
Note: Under the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, applicants may remove or redact age-related information (e.g., birth date, graduation year) without penalty.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Colorado Boulder is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all federal, state, and local laws regarding nondiscrimination.
We welcome applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities, and are committed to a workplace of respect, diversity, and inclusion.
Be Statements
Be ambitious. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder.