What Types of Jobs for Physicists are Available at NASA?

AI Thread Summary
A B.Sc. Physics student is seeking advice on job prospects at NASA, particularly in satellite communications. The discussion highlights that most positions in this field are engineering-focused, raising questions about opportunities for physicists and mathematicians. It is noted that NASA primarily hires U.S. citizens due to government regulations, which can limit employment for foreign nationals. The conversation emphasizes that even if a foreign candidate is highly qualified, U.S. citizens are often given preference for job openings. Additionally, while NASA does contract with private companies, these opportunities are typically not available to individuals. The importance of understanding citizenship requirements for employment at NASA is a key takeaway.
Amith2006
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Sir,
I am a B.Sc.Physics 3rd year student. I am a bright student and it is my long cherished dream to work in NASA. Could you please tell me about the jobs prospects for physicists there? Are all the jobs in NASA for engineers? If not, a specialization in which branch of physics will improve my chances of finding a place there? I am particularly interested in satellite communications. I kindly request you to help me in building my career. Your advice will be taken in the right spirit.

With Regards
Amitabh
 
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It seems to me like most jobs in the area of satellite communications would be in the realm of engineering.
 
Any jobs at NASA for mathematicians?
 
http://www.nasajobs.nasa.gov/

Are there any restrictions as to having to be a US citizen though?
 
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as far as i know, you can only get into the USA legally if you have a green card or a visa. In this case it would be given if you had a contract of employment. However getting a contract of employment is hampered by the fact that employers are obliged to give preference to US citizens. I think this preference goes as far as if someone else that is a US citizen is qualified enough to do the job, even though they may not be as qualified as you, employers have to give it to the US citizen, which sucks badly. I may be wrong tho.. please correct me if I am.
 
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In the UK tho', you can't work for any MoD-type place if not British - does NASA come under the US military at all?
 
Q. Does NASA hire foreign nationals?
A. Because NASA is an agency of the government of the United States of America, employment with NASA is restricted to citizens of the United States of America. Also, although NASA does contract with private industry for services, generally these contracts are with major companies as opposed to individuals.

That's from there website. Most of the jobs with NASA and defence contractors are only open to US citizens.
 
That's what I thought but couldn't see it anywhere on their site... :confused:
 
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