University of California - Berkeley, CA
posted 5 months ago
The Balloon Instrumentation Engineer position at the University of California, Berkeley, within the Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL), is a full-time role focused on the development and operation of scientific instruments for NASA-funded high-altitude balloon programs. The SSL is dedicated to advancing research in space-related sciences and providing educational opportunities for future space scientists. This role requires a highly motivated electrical engineer who will engage in a fast-paced environment, characterized by creative problem-solving and collaboration within interdisciplinary teams. The engineer will be involved in the complete design cycle of scientific instruments, which includes specification, design, building, testing, calibration, integration with other systems, and operational deployment in both instrument and flight contexts. The current projects include the General Antiparticle Spectrometer (GAPS) and the Gamma-Ray Imager/Polarimeter for Solar Flares (GRIPS). GAPS aims to detect antinuclei in cosmic rays, which are crucial for understanding dark matter processes in the galaxy. This instrument incorporates various technologies, including silicon radiation detectors and custom electronics, and is set to launch from McMurdo Station, Antarctica, in December 2024. On the other hand, GRIPS is designed to provide high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy of solar-flare gamma-ray emissions, utilizing advanced germanium detectors and low-noise readout electronics, with its second flight also scheduled from McMurdo Station in December 2025. The successful candidate will play a vital role in these groundbreaking projects, contributing to the advancement of space science and technology.