Category: Laboratory

Professor in Planetary Sciences at the University of Bern

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Current state: Review
Department: Division of Space Research and Planetary Sciences
City: Bern
Category: , , , , , , , , ,
Country: Switzerland
Contact Person: Christoph Mordasini
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Bern
Application Due Date: Saturday, January 31 2026
Web Link: https://ohws.prospective.ch/public/v1/jobs/5910a4be-30c9-4e9d-abbe-9bc44b71776e

The Division of Space Research and Planetary Sciences of the Physics Institute, University of Bern, Switzerland, invites applications for a full-time position as a Professor in Planetary Sciences. The initial level of tenure can range from assistant professor tenure track to full professor depending on qualifications (open rank). We invite applications from candidates who conduct outstanding research, teaching, mentorship, and leadership in any area of experimental planetary science. Areas of research could include, but are not limited to, the properties, origin and evolution of planets and minor bodies in the Solar System, the search for and emergence of life beyond Earth, the composition of surfaces and atmospheres, ongoing physical and chemical surface and sub-surface processes and the evolution of planetary interiors. A diverse spectrum of approaches and methodologies is welcome, including, but not limited to, the analysis and modeling of space probe datasets, instrumentation, and flight hardware development, experimental, observational and laboratory techniques, comparative planetology or the involvement, development, and leadership in space missions.

McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship

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Current state: Review
Department: McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences
City: St. Louis
State/Province: Missouri
Category: , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Vickie Gee
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Washington University
Application Due Date: Saturday, December 20 2025
Web Link: https://mcss.wustl.edu/news/postdoctoral-fellowship-opening-2025

Washington University in St. Louis invites applicants to conduct independent research as a postdoctoral fellow of the McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences (MCSS) in the broad field of space sciences. We welcome applicants with interests in Astromaterials, Cosmochemistry, or Meteoritics; Experimental, Theoretical, or Observational Astrophysics; Planetary Science; Particle and Nuclear Physics, Cosmology and Gravitation; and Earth as a Planet. In their application materials, the candidate should describe their research interests and list potential collaborators from among the faculty fellows of the MCSS.

Employment in this fellowship is planned to begin in July 2026 for an anticipated initial one-year term, with the possibility of renewal for a second year.

Candidates must have a PhD or be a May 2026 degree candidate specializing in one of the fields listed above and have a record of excellent scholarship. Ideal candidates will have demonstrated expertise in relevant observational, lab-based, theoretical, and computational methodologies.

Carnegie Postdoctoral Fellowships Starting in 2026 at the Earth and Planets Laboratory

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Current state: Approved
Department: Earth and Planets Laboratory
City: Washington
State/Province: DC
Category: , , , ,
Country: US
Contact Person: Alycia Weinberger
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Carnegie Institution for Science
Application Due Date: Monday, November 03 2025
Web Link: https://apply.interfolio.com/172660

The Earth and Planets Laboratory (EPL), a division of the Carnegie Institution for Science, invites applications for postdoctoral fellowships at its campus in Washington, DC. Multiple independent research fellowships are available in our interdisciplinary basic research laboratory covering a wide range of fields. EPL scientists engage in observational, experimental and theoretical research in fields including astronomy, cosmochemistry, data science, experimental petrology, geobiology, geochemistry, geodynamics, geophysics, mineral physics, planetary science, physics and chemistry of materials (including materials at extreme conditions, superconductors and ferroelectrics at the atomic scale), seismology, and volcanology. Applicants’ primary field of research should overlap with one or more of these areas. Interdisciplinary research and collaboration with multiple research areas on campus is encouraged.

Carnegie Postdoctoral Fellowships are awarded once a year, with allowed start dates between July 1st and December 31, 2026. New fellows will join a supportive community of about 25 postdoctoral scientists and 30 staff and research scientists engaged in understanding the origin and evolution of Earth and planets and materials under extreme conditions. More information about our research and facilities can be viewed at https://carnegiescience.edu/epl and about our postdoctoral fellowships and postdoctoral experience at https://carnegiescience.edu/about/working/postdocs/epl.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field at the time of the start of the fellowship. The principal selection criteria will be research accomplishment, promise of future achievement, originality and achievability of the research proposal, independence, and relevance to the ongoing scientific pursuits at EPL. Advice for crafting a compelling application and sample applications are available on our postdoctoral website.

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor Position in Experimental Laboratory Astrophysics

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Current state: Approved
Department: Physics
City: Auburn
State/Province: AL
Category: ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Dennis Bodewits
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Auburn University
Application Due Date: Friday, November 15 2024
Web Link: https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/123978

The Department of Physics at Auburn University is inviting applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Experimental Laboratory Astrophysics. We are seeking a talented and driven experimentalist to join our department and lead an innovative research program that enhances our understanding of astrophysical processes, astrochemical reactions, and the fundamental physics of atomic and molecular interactions in space environments.

The ideal candidate will have expertise in experimental techniques that complement astronomical observations and space exploration, contributing to interdisciplinary research in astrophysics, astrochemistry, heliophysics, planetary science, and other related fields. This position also offers the opportunity to teach and mentor students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Key Responsibilities:
Develop a robust, externally funded research program in Laboratory Astrophysics.
Lead experiments that contribute to our understanding of the universe, complementing observational data and space mission results.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams in physics, astrophysics, planetary science, and related areas.
Teach and mentor students at all levels.

Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Auburn University offers a competitive benefits package, including health care, retirement benefits, and resources for research support. At the College of Sciences and Mathematics, we value the land-grant mission of the university. We are committed to broadening access to higher education in order to cultivate culturally competent professionals. As an R1, Doctoral University and one of the nation’s premier land, sea, and space grant institutions, Auburn University is understanding of and sensitive to the family needs of faculty, including dual-career couples.

We encourage you to share this exciting opportunity with your colleagues and networks. Below are the key details:

Position: Assistant Professor (Tenure-Track)
Field: Experimental Laboratory Astrophysics
Application Review Begins: November 15, 2024
Full Posting and Application Link: https://www.auemployment.com/postings/48943

PhD Student in Experimental Asteroid Research

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Department: Division of Space Technology
City: Kiruna
Category: , , , ,
Country: Sweden
Contact Person: Mikael Granvik
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Luleå University of Technology
Application Due Date: Monday, June 26 2023
Web Link: https://www.ltu.se/ltu/Lediga-jobb?l=en&rmpage=job&rmjob=6939&rmlang=UK

Luleå University of Technology is looking for a highly-motivated PhD student to join the Asteroid Engineering Laboratory located on the Space Campus in Kiruna, Sweden.

The successful candidate will carry out laboratory experiments on asteroid simulants and meteorites with the ultimate goal to understand the mechanisms that destroy asteroids close to the Sun, and how the destruction process affects the near-Earth asteroid population. The primary tool for the experimental work is the new Space and High-Irradiation Near-Sun Simulator (SHINeS), which is used for assessing how irradiation comparable to that found close to the Sun affects materials resembling those found on asteroids. The successful candidate will also contribute to the development of an analytical and/or numerical model of the destruction process that will be included in evolutionary models of the near-Earth asteroid population.

The position is fully funded for 4 years with a starting salary of 32800 SEK per month + benefits.

The application deadline is June 26, 2023 CEST.

Postdoctoral position in laboratory planetary science/astrophysics

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Department: Department of Physics and Astronomy
City: San Antonio
State/Province: Texas
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Xinting Yu
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Texas at San Antonio
Application Due Date: Monday, March 27 2023
Web Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK50eV6CBlSskfScfP_vQ0OamgGwyj31vcqfF9VHLQjtZtIg/viewform?usp=sf_link

​The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Department of Physics and Astronomy invites applications for a postdoctoral position in laboratory astrophysics/planetary science. The postdoc would work with Assistant Professor Dr. Xinting Yu on performing material characterization using a newly-constructed Planetary Material Characterization Facility at UTSA. The successful applicant would have the opportunity to work with a range of material characterization instrumentation, including but not limited to nanoindentation, ellipsometry, and atomic force microscopy, work on projects to measure various material properties of planetary materials including planetary aerosol analogs, field samples, meteorites, planetary regolith analogs, and potentially return samples, and apply the material properties to understand various atmospheric/surface processes on planetary bodies in and outside the Solar System. Prior experience with material characterization, laboratory astrophysics, or planetary science is preferred. The candidate must have a Ph.D. in astronomy, planetary science, geophysics, materials science, or a related field by the start date of the position. 

The appointment will be for 2 years, with a possibility of a one-year extension contingent upon performance and funding – with benefits and research support. The expected start date is Fall 2023 and is negotiable. 

To apply, please submit an online application. The requested materials include a full CV with a list of publications, a 1-page summary of previous research, and a 2-page description of research interests. Please also arrange for 2-3 letters of reference to be sent via the same application form. Applications will not be considered until all materials are received. Review of applications will begin on March 27, 2023. Note: You will receive a confirmation email from Dr. Xinting Yu ([email protected]) once your application is complete within 3 business days.

UTSA is located in San Antonio, a vibrant city with a dynamic and diverse population. It is classified as both a Minority and a Hispanic Serving Institution, with more than 30,000 students with culturally diverse backgrounds. UTSA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Research Physical Scientist, AST-Solar Systems Analysis

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Department: Planetary Environments Laboratory
City: Greenbelt
State/Province: MD
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Scott Guzewich
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Application Due Date: Thursday, February 23 2023
Web Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/702547900

The Planetary Environments Lab at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, which studies the chemistry and astrobiology of the atmospheres and surfaces of planetary bodies, is seeking a scientist who specializes in chromatography, with a strong emphasis on front end separation techniques and hardware development. Candidates are expected to have experience in chromatography mass spectrometry techniques.  The job is open to all US citizens.  Applications are open between 2/9/2023 and 2/23/2023.  https://www.usajobs.gov/job/702547900

PhD Student in Experimental Asteroid Research

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Department: Division of Space Technology
City: Kiruna
Category: , , , ,
Country: Sweden
Contact Person: Mikael Granvik
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Luleå University of Technology
Application Due Date: Friday, January 20 2023
Web Link: https://www.ltu.se/ltu/Lediga-jobb?l=en&rmpage=job&rmjob=6383&rmlang=UK

Luleå University of Technology (LTU) is looking for a highly-motivated PhD student to join the Asteroid Engineering Laboratory located on the Space Campus in Kiruna, Sweden.

The successful candidate will carry out laboratory experiments on asteroid simulants and meteorites with the ultimate goal to understand the mechanisms that destroy asteroids close to the Sun. The primary tool for the experimental work is the new Space and High-Irradiation Near-Sun Simulator (SHINeS), which is used for assessing how irradiation comparable to that found close to the Sun affects materials resembling those found on asteroids. The successful candidate will also contribute to the development of an analytical and/or numerical model of the destruction process.

The position is fully funded for 4 years.

Application deadline is January 20, 2023. More information and application guidelines at

https://www.ltu.se/ltu/Lediga-jobb?l=en&rmpage=job&rmjob=6383&rmlang=UK

 

Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor – Advanced Materials

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Department: Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences; Chemistry; Physics and Astronomy; Biology
City: West Lafayette
State/Province: IN
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Mike Sori
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Purdue University
Application Due Date: Tuesday, November 01 2022
Web Link: http://www.purdue.edu

The Departments of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences, Chemistry, Physics and Astronomy, and Biological Sciences at Purdue University invite applicants for multiple faculty positions at any rank in the area of Advanced Materials, with departmental appointment(s) to align with candidate’s expertise and interests. Successful candidates hired at all faculty levels as part of this College-wide cluster search will help form the core of a new interdisciplinary Center for Advanced Materials, along with an already established dynamic group of Purdue College of Science faculty across all departments. Center faculty will create an interdisciplinary, globally competitive research presence.  Applications from researchers in all areas with relevance to Advanced Materials are welcome, including but not limited to geologic or planetary materials, mineralogy, space materials, environmental materials, and materials to address climate change or sustainability.  Questions related to this position may be addressed to Prof. Mike Sori ([email protected]) or Prof. Roger Wiens ([email protected]).  Review of applications will begin on or after Nov 1, 2022 and remain in consideration until the position is filled.  For additional details and instructions on how to apply, please visit the official job ads here:

Assistant level:   https://careers.purdue.edu/job/West-Lafayette-Professor-Assistant-IN-47906/942425200/

Associate or Full level:  https://careers.purdue.edu/job/West-Lafayette-Associate-Professor-IN-47906/940933400/

Assistant Professor – Igneous Petrology of Earth & Planetary Materials

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Department: Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
City: West Lafayette
State/Province: IN - Indiana
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Prof. Briony Horgan
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Purdue University
Application Due Date: Tuesday, November 15 2022
Web Link: https://careers.purdue.edu/job-invite/22523/

The Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (EAPS), within the College of Science, Purdue University, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor in the area of igneous petrology of Earth and planetary materials. EAPS supports research and teaching across both Earth and planetary science, so candidates with research programs that bridge Earth and planetary applications are especially encouraged to apply. Areas of interest include but are not limited to field, laboratory, and experimental studies of volcanic systems and/or the evolution of Earth and planetary interiors and crusts, potentially using sample-based studies of terrestrial materials, planetary returned or analog samples, or meteorites. 

Purdue EAPS is a vibrant community of researchers with diverse interests and would present significant collaborative opportunities. The department houses world-class analytical laboratories, including clean rooms associated with TIMS and ICP-MS instruments, a noble gas mass spectrometry facility, stable isotope laboratory, and access to campus-wide AMS, XRD, XRF, and electron microscopy facilities. 

Candidates must have completed their Ph.D. in geology, planetary science, or a related field, with outstanding credentials in research, an excellent track record of or potential for leading publications and a strong commitment to excellence in teaching. The appointee is expected to develop and maintain a vigorous, externally funded, and internationally recognized research program and display excellence in teaching and mentoring students at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

For additional details, please visit the official job ad here: https://careers.purdue.edu/job-invite/22523/

Applications should be submitted electronically at https://hiring.science.purdue.edu. Applications should include one PDF file containing:

  • a cover letter (maximum 1 page)

  • a curriculum vitae including relevant publications

  • a statement of research (maximum 5 pages) including a vision for the research program the candidate hopes to build at Purdue

  • a teaching statement (maximum 3 pages) including possible contributions to existing of new courses, undergraduate research experiences, and teaching philosophy

  • a statement discussing past or future activities dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (maximum 1 page)

  • contact information of three individuals who can provide letters of reference.

Questions related to this position should be addressed to the Chair of the Search Committee, Dr. Briony Horgan ([email protected] and copy [email protected]). Review of applications will begin on November 15, 2022 and continue until the position is filled.