Bioastronautics and Fundamental Space Biology Postdoctoral Research Program

THE PROGRAM AND ITS OBJECTIVES

NASA's Divisions of Bioastronautics Research and Fundamental Space Biology have developed a postdoctoral research program to expand microgravity research and educational opportunities. An important element for the future of space-related life sciences research is the development of a trained investigator cadre who will become the new generation of Bioastronautics and Fundamental Space Biology investigators. Universities Space Research Association's Division of Space Life Sciences (DSLS) is working with NASA to support this important research effort.

The Bioastronautics and Fundamental Space Biology (BFSB) Postdoctoral Research Program, managed by the DSLS, is designed to provide advanced training and practical research experience to investigators early in their professional careers. Through national competition, outstanding scientists will have an opportunity to engage in experimental activities in a variety of laboratory and clinically related disciplines at NASA space and research centers.

Potential applicants should review the available Research Opportunities, to find an opportunity that complements his/her research interests and experience. Research Opportunities for the 2005 program year will be posted on this web site in the near future.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Initiation of Appointment
The start date of the appointment will be scheduled on an individual basis by mutual agreement between the DSLS, the postdoctoral fellow and the sponsoring NASA field center. However, the postdoctoral appointment must begin within six months from the date of offer. If a selected candidate has not yet met the degree requirements at the time of application, he/she must present acceptable evidence to USRA that all formal academic requirements for a specified degree have been completed before the BFSB appointment may begin.

Tenure
The duration of the initial postdoctoral appointments will be for 24 months, contingent upon a satisfactory annual review, with the possibility of an additional 12-month extension. A postdoctoral appointment does not constitute a commitment for future employment.

BFSB fellows must be located at the sponsoring field center and devote their full-time efforts to the research described in their application during the term of their appointment.

Travel
Generally, funds are available for one trip per year for each fellow to allow for travel to one professional conference. Relocation reimbursement will be available; however, the amount will be determined on a case by case basis depending on the availability of funds.

Benefits
Participation in the group life, health and dental insurance plans, 10 days of annual leave per year, as well as holiday and sick leave is available. No retirement benefits will be paid.

Annual Review
The BFSB Postdoctoral Research Program requires an annual performance review of all fellows. The continuation of each appointment is contingent upon a satisfactory review. A metrics document will be provided at the beginning of each fellow’s appointment that will help to document his/her scientific, professional, and educational activities throughout the year. The metrics document becomes the basis of the annual review. The sponsoring NASA mentor will provide input on the metrics document regarding a fellow’s performance during the performance period.

For more information:
recruitment@dsls.usra.edu

Last updated
August 2, 2005