Senior Scientist

Vast is seeking a qualified candidate for a Senior Scientist, reporting to the Director of Space Medicine under Mission Operations. This role will support the solicitation, integration, training, and operations of Vast science and research projects. This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

In this role, you will collaborate with our interdisciplinary team, interface with internal and external partners and customers, work with crew members, and contribute to the development of vehicle lab design, training materials, and protocols.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in developing and implementing the scientific vision and strategic direction for the company’s research programs in alignment with organizational goals. Including managing requests for proposals (RFPs) and working with the broader scientific community
• Lead and own the development of internal and external payload requirements and interface documentation
• Assist internal engineering and technical teams in science equipment selection and development of space station design and features.
• Own engineering requirements associated with research system development and utilization
• Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of scientific experiments and projects conducted aboard the space station, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards
• Establish and maintain partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry leaders to enhance research capabilities and funding opportunities
• Communicate research findings to internal and external stakeholders, including publishing results in scientific journals and presenting at conferences
• Ensure all scientific activities comply with relevant regulations, ethical standards, and organizational policies

Minimum Qualifications:

• Masters degree, equivalent, or higher in an empiric science or professional field (planetary science, biology, engineering, medical research, etc…)
• Minimum of 10 years experience with integrating science and research projects with ISS or similar
• Minimum 10 years experience with research publication (reviews and authorship)
• Minimum 5 years experience with navigating human and animal research ethics 
• Minimum 5 years experience with science communication
• Strong knowledge of research and science ethics 
• Familiarity with engineering processes
• Familiarity with Human and Animal research practices

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Detailed knowledge of orbital crew science laboratories such as the International Space Station or equivalent
• Experience building and designing labs and selecting equipment in remote environments 
• Strong understanding of the space industry, including current trends and challenges in space exploration and research
• Research interests and publications in the spaceflight arena
• Ability to make independent judgments with limited information
• Pre-existing relationships with researchers, universities, and industry 
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams to solve complex problems
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
• Passion for innovation and a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and applications in space

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to travel up to 40% of the time
• Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones