Postdoctoral Research Associate I (Planetary Atmospheres)

Current state: Approved
Department: Lunar & Planetary Laboratory/Department of Planetary Sciences
City: Tucson
State/Province: AZ
Country: USA
Contact Person: Sukrit Ranjan
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Arizona
Application Due Date: Monday, December 15 2025

The Lunar & Planetary Laboratory at the University of Arizona has an opening for a Postdoctoral Research Associate I in the field of modeling of planetary atmospheres. Research areas include hydrodynamic atmospheric escape from rocky exoplanets, nitrogen and sulfur cycling on early Mars and Earth, chemical kinetics of early Earth, Venus, Mars, and analogous exoplanets, and interior-atmosphere interactions on rocky worlds. Candidates are encouraged to reach out to Prof. Ranjan in advance of their application to cooperatively identify specific research topics of mutual interest. Applicants should have previous experience modeling the atmospheres of planets or exoplanets, although a variety of backgrounds may be relevant. Candidates with expertise in 1D hydrodynamic escape of rocky planet atmospheres and/or in modeling early terrestrial or Martian geochemistry are especially encouraged to apply. The position is for a period of up to three years, renewable annually contingent on satisfactory performance reviews.

First review of applications will begin 12/15/2025. UA LPL is a stimulating, world-class department with strong connections to missions and the next generation of telescopes, as well as to our colleagues in Astronomy and Geoscience. Tucson is a great place to live, with excellent hiking, great food, and a low cost of living. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions!