What are the responsibilities and job description for the Space Systems Chief Engineer position at Northeastern University?
About the Opportunity
As of 2024, roughly 33% of humans still do not have internet access. The lack of infrastructure in many countries (as well as remote regions within developed countries) has limited fiber optic capabilities as well as other ground-based solutions. Private companies such as SpaceX using their Starlink constellation have begun the quest to solving this problem using a combination of Ka / Ku band systems (limited in bandwidth) and laser systems (limited in pointing capability) as a standalone solution, without a serious competitor.
To improve upon those systems, the terahertz band, positioned on the spectrum between Ka / Ku and laser frequencies, would offer a sweet-spot trade-off with increased bandwidth and more flexible pointing capabilities. This communication technology is being developed by Northeastern University's Ultrabroadband-Nanonetworking Laboratory (UNLab) under the guidance of Dr. Josep Jornet. UNLab is a pioneer in terahertz communications, with many industry partners including the NASA Jet Propulsion laboratory (JPL), working towards the vision of launching terahertz CubeSat constellations capable of providing space-to-Earth & intersatellite links above 100 GHz.
This goal of this project is to take the first step in implementing this vision, through developing a CubeSat carrying a THz Software Defined Radio (SDR) as its primary payload. The primary mission objective is to demonstrate reliable communications above 100 GHz in space. A launch date was secured with the NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative program, and the development of the terahertz radio payload is under development by NASA JPL.
To bring this vision to reality, the department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Ultrabroadband Nanonetworking Laboratory (UNLab), part of the Institute for the Wireless Internet of Things (WIoT), is seeking a Space Systems Chief Engineer to help launch the first ever terahertz communication satellite in space. The work involves the design, development, integration, and testing of the CubeSat, demonstrating feasibility of satellite communication in the Terahertz band (THz band, 0.1-10THz).
This groundbreaking project is the first of its kind, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge space technology and communication systems. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the entire systems engineering process, ensuring the successful integration and operation of the CubeSats
QUALIFICATIONS :
Basic Qualifications :
- A Ph.D. in. Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, or Computer engineering preferred) or a M.S. degree with 3 years of experience in space missions
- Systems engineering experience (ability to understand and connect different subsystems including the integration of hardware, software, and mechanical systems).
- Ability to identify bottlenecks and solve problems across different domains
- Proficiency in MATLAB or other programming languages
- Clear writing and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications :
Position Type
Research
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit for more information.
Northeastern University is an equal opportunity employer, seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. Northeastern values and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
To learn more about Northeastern University's commitment and support of diversity and inclusion, please see www.northeastern.edu / diversity.
