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Surface evolution process of Solar System primitive bodies by Near-Infrared spectroscopy

Details of research theme

【Individual Research】
The applicant is expected to perform research aimed at elucidating the surface evolution of primordial solar system bodies using near-infrared spectroscopic analysis. While the surface material of small solar system bodies has been connected to meteorites, mainly through visible and near-infrared spectroscopic observations, it has undergone many alterations, such as space weathering. We will proceed with this study by comparing the results of ground observations, remote sensing observations from spacecraft, and laboratory analyses, as well as developing new analytical methods.

 

【JAXA Project】
The applicant is expected to contribute to the development and/or specification review of Near-Infrared spectrometer for target objects (currently comet nuclei, D-type asteroids, or E-type asteroids) in the Next Generation Small Body Sample Return (NGSR) mission. The applicant is also expected to perform laboratory experiments that will be useful for interpreting remote sensing data. Furthermore, support will be provided for the development of spectroscopic observation instruments.

 

【Human Resource Development unique to ISAS 】
The applicant is expected to possess not only data analysis skills but also a deep understanding of astromaterials, as well as the ability to contribute to the development of new instruments or methodologies.

 

 

<Scope of change in work> None

(If there is a change beyond the work related to the above work content, the contract will be revised)

Required abilities， qualities， and experience

Doctoral degree or equivalent

Ratios（Project Contribution）

50%

Research environment after arriving at one’s post.

Research can be conducted using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR) and Thermal Diffusivity Analyzer of the Department of Solar System Sciences, and many other instruments (FTIR, SEM/EDX, XRD, XCT, etc.) managed by Astromaterials Science Research Group, where the host supervisor works.

In addition, the latest flight data from Hayabusa2, Hera, RAMSES, and other remote sensing data from spacecraft can be accessed.

Research supervisor/Prospective mentor

Research Supervisor:
JAXA ISAS Department of Solar System Sciences Associate Professor Tatsuaki OKADA

 

Prospective mentor:
JAXA ISAS Department of Solar System Sciences Assistant Professor Takuya ISHIZAKI,

 

Location

JAXA Sagamihara Campus 

 

<Scope of change> If the organization conducts telework regularly, the location; if the location of work changes due to organizational reorganization, the location determined by the organization

Department

JAXA ISAS　Department of Solar System Sciences

 

Employment，benefits

*Before applying, please be sure to read the [JAXA Aerospace Project Research Associate  (Institute of Space and Astronautical Science) Recruitment Page].

 

3years

・Contract of employment will be concluded each fiscal year.
・Applicants will not be hired as a permanent employee after the term of service.
・Employment period may be extended up to 3 years for the longest, in consideration of research evaluation every fiscal year.

・Annual Income
　Approximately JPY 5,900,000

　* May change due to the recommendation by the Natl. Personnel Authority.
・Benefits
　Commuting, Housing, Achievement, Year-end allowances.
・Research funding
　Researcher may receive research funding specific to such individual.(However, this depends on the budget.)

Closing Date

August 26(Wed), 2026 17:00(JST)
* Closing Date is mandatory.
* Please note that you are not able to pre-apply during 1a.m.~5a.m.(JST) on the third Thursday of each month due to regular system maintenance. Thank you for avoiding the certain time.

Selection Schedule

The result of the first selection will be announced by the Middle-Late September, 2026.(Scheduled to be held around September 24th)

Online Interview: Middle-October, 2026.(Scheduled to be held around October 16th)

* On the day of the event, you will be required to give a 10-minute presentation on your research plan and future career vision. Those who have passed the document screening will need to send the above presentation materials (PDF) by the interview date.

* Schedule is subject to change.

Attached document

 Please check the JAXA Aerospace Project Research Associate Recruitment page "Required Documents" of ISAS carefully before applying.

  

"FORM 2 Letter of Recommendation" (in PDF)

 

Letter of Recommendation must be attached by the applicant or sent by the recommender by email ( " isas-hrtask*ml.jaxa.jp ". Please change * to @)

If you do not send a Letter of Recommendation, your application will be invalid.

Contact information

Please enter "JAXA Aerospace Project Research Associate Recruitment" in the subject line and send.

Please refrain from making inquiries other than those related to recruitment.

 

■For specific inquiries about the research theme;

  ISAS Department of Solar System Sciences Tatsuaki OKADA: okada.tatsuaki＊jaxa.jp

 

■For general inquiries

JAXA HR Office: jaxacareer*jaxa.jp

 

Please change * to @ above.