Research Scientist - Human Research Program

The purpose of the non-tenure track Research Scientist position is to assist the Space Radiation (SR) Element in executing and overseeing the research tasks that are implemented under the Human Research Program (HRP) for characterizing and mitigating the relevant human health and performance risks for long-duration spaceflight.
The primary function of this job will be to work as an independent contractor to KBR, at the general direction of the Element Scientist of the NASA Human Research Program's Space Radiation Program Element. The Consultant will provide leadership as the subject matter expert to manage the research portfolio under the risk of acute and chronic effects of space radiation on the Central Nervous System (CNS).The overarching requirement is that the Consultant gives direction in the management of scientific research, design, and operations projects. The work requires extensive coordination and integration within the Human Research Program, the Human Health and Performance Directorate (HHPD) and with external organizations to ensure that the objectives of Space Radiation CNS discipline are met. In conjunction with the Space Radiation Element Scientists and Managers, the CNS Discipline Subject Matter Expert (SME) will make substantial and continuing contributions to the long-range planning and execution of the element and ensure that CNS radiation research is focused on mitigating high-priority, operationally relevant risks and at developing countermeasures that support space exploration missions.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
* Responsible for compliance with Safety, Health and Environmental plan; must be committed to a high standard of safety and be willing and able to comply with all safety laws and all of the Company’s safety policies and rules and must be willing to report safety violations and potential safety violations to appropriate supervisory or management personnel
* Responsible for compliance with the Quality Assurance Plan, policies and procedures
* Must maintain regular and acceptable attendance level as determined by the Company
* Responsible for completing all assigned training
* Assist the Space Radiation (SR) Element Scientists in preparing, implementing and managing a program of Acute and Late Central Nervous System Effects from Radiation Exposure research for addressing the Risks and Gaps that are part of the SR and HHC Element Plans.
* Engage internal and external Subject Matter Experts to assist the Space Radiation Element define research requirements, assess operational needs and relevance.
* Provide Subject Matter Expertise in the development and maintenance of the CNS risk evidence base, reports and presentations
* Assist with facilitating research collaborations within the SR Element and across the other HRP Elements to meet the goals of HRP and the Space Radiation Element; apply a human systems approach and optimize resources.
* Develop an in-depth understanding of all investigations within the Space Radiation and Human Health Countermeasures Elements (HRP- and non-HRP funded tasks) that address Acute and Late Central Nervous System Effects from Radiation Exposure research.
* Participate in defining and translating the SR Element’s requirements for spaceflight analog platforms (as applicable)
* Support the Element Managers and Scientists in developing a recommended procurement plan for the research and technology tasks necessary to carry out the space radiation-induced cardiovascular disease research portfolio.
* Assist with developing research solicitations for NASA Research Announcements, and review grant proposals received to meet the Space Radiation Element’s defined research strategy and goals.
* Determine the need for, and coordinate the development of, directed task proposals seeking Element Scientist and Manager concurrence.
* Complete reviews of investigators’ Annual and Final Reports; assess the impacts of research results in closing CNS research gaps, identifying new gaps (if applicable) and the progress towards risk reduction
* Represent the Space Radiation Element at various workshops, summits, review panels, control boards, subject matter expert meetings, etc., as required.
* Participate, as needed, in transition to operations of the SR Element research products to the appropriate spaceflight operations team.
* Provide scientific expertise and input to Space Radiation presentations, Element plans, technical reports and other Element documents, including the Human Research Roadmap, Path to Risk Reduction, Integrated Research Plan, etc.
* Participate in presenting program objectives, project updates and other reporting at meetings and scientific conferences.
* Represent the SR Element in multidisciplinary working groups.
Position located at JSC NASA.
The University of Houston is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution and recognizes protected classes of race, color, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, religion, age (40 and above), national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or status, and gender expression as required by federal law. Veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. 

REQUIRED:
- Subject Matter Expert in the field of Acute and Late Central Nervous System Effects from Radiation Exposure with a Doctorate in Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Radiation physics or related discipline with 10+ years of laboratory research or serving as a Subject Matter Expert in CNS area.
DESIRED:
- Degree(s) in life sciences, biomedical engineering, or related degree field(s)
- Prior experience with life sciences research, including low dose radiation
- Prior experience in research or research management positions
- Prior experience with NASA, Aerospace, Military or similar organizations
- Prior experience working within a technical, engineering organization
- Familiarity with existing KBR management processes and tools
- Familiarity with existing NASA/HRP management processes and tools