Post-doctorate in space plasma physics (Role of planetary ions in Mercury's magnetosphere using MSA BepiColombo observations) M/F
New
- Researcher in FTC
- 24 mounth
- Doctorate
This offer is available in English version
This offer is open to people with a document recognizing their status as a disabled worker.
Offer at a glance
The Unit
Laboratoire de Physique des Plasmas
Contract Type
Researcher in FTC
Working hHours
Full Time
Workplace
PALAISEAU ()
Contract Duration
24 mounth
Date of Hire
01/10/2026
Remuneration
3081.33 euros
Apply Application Deadline : 13 March 2026 23:59
Job Description
Missions
The postdoctoral reasearch project lies at the frontier between planetary science and magnetospheric physics, focusing on Mercury's ion dynamics. Its primary goal is to enhance our understanding of the role the planetary ions play within this environment by examining their composition, life cycle, acceleration processes, and interactions with Mercury's surface and exosphere. A key emphasis will be placed on analyzing the three-dimensional distributions of the ions observed by the Mass Spectrum Analyzer (MSA) onboard ESA/JAXA BepiColombo spacecraft over a broad range of energies and masses, which could not be fully addressed by the MESSENGER NASA mission. By leveraging observations from both the magnetospheric and planetary orbiters of BepiColombo, and comparing with numerical simulations, the project aims to provide completely new and critical insights into Mercury's magnetospheric ion dynamics.
Activity
1. Numerical modeling of Mercury's magnetosphere and ion dynamics
2. MSA instrument data analysis
Your Profil
Skills
Knowledge / Academic Background
• PhD in plasma physics, space physics, planetary science, or an equivalent discipline.
• Strong expertise in the analysis of experimental space data and signal processing.
Technical Skills
• Proficiency in a scientific programming language (Python or equivalent).
• Knowledge of in situ measuring instruments (mass spectrometers, magnetometers, particle detectors).
Soft Skills / Professional Attributes
• Scientific and technical rigor.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Aptitude for teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Autonomy in managing technical tasks.
Your Work Environment
LPP (Laboratory of Plasma Physics) is a joint research unit of the CNRS, École Polytechnique, and Sorbonne University. It is composed of 120 members, including approximately 60 permanent staff, spread across two sites: the École Polytechnique campus in Palaiseau and the Sorbonne University campus at Paris-Jussieu.
The LPP is structured around three thematic research pillars: space plasmas, low-temperature plasmas (cold plasmas), and fusion plasmas. The Space Plasma group includes about 29 permanent researchers and engineers and is divided into a scientific team and two technical teams dedicated to "Waves" and "Particles" instrumentation, respectively. The recruited postdoctoral researcher will be based at the Palaiseau site.
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
3081.33 euros
Annual leave and RTT
44 jours
Remote Working practice and compensation
Pratique et indemnisation du TT
Transport
Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€
About the offer
| Offer reference | UMR7648-EDOBOU-049 |
|---|---|
| CN Section(s) / Research Area | Interactions, particles, nuclei, from laboratory to cosmos |
About the CNRS
The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.
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