Category: Surface Geology

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.

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.

Assistant Professor (Tenure-Track) Faculty Position in Geobiology at UCLA

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Current state: Approved
Department: Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences
City: Los Angeles
State/Province: CA
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Sean Silverstein
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: UCLA
Application Due Date: Sunday, December 01 2024
Web Link: https://recruit.apo.ucla.edu/JPF09827

The UCLA Department of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences (EPSS) invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Geobiology at the Assistant Professor rank. Competitive candidates will have expertise in the detection and characterization of life and/or signatures of life in Earth’s past and present environments, and/or in extraterrestrial settings. Areas of research may include, but are not limited to, organic geochemistry, isotope geochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, paleontology, paleobiology, and/or astrobiology. Candidates with expertise that complements and expands the existing strengths of UCLA’s geobiology, geology, geochemistry and planetary science research programs, and who see potential for synergies across the breadth of research pursued by EPSS faculty, are particularly encouraged to apply. We seek individuals with experience in research, teaching, and community/collegial service who are prepared to contribute to our commitment to excellence in scholarship and to our goals of equity, diversity, and inclusion. The successful candidate will be expected to establish a vigorous, externally funded research program at UCLA. Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in biology, chemistry, geochemistry, geology, environmental science, or a closely related field by the date of hire.

EPSS faculty conduct research in geophysics, geology, geobiology, geochemistry, planetary science, paleobiology, and space physics. The department has a strong tradition of integrative research that transcends traditional discipline boundaries. The ability of applicants to contribute to this multidisciplinary ethos will be a consideration in evaluation, in addition to their commitment to enhancing the diversity of EPSS faculty and students.

Postdoc Positions in Lunar Dust Mitigation at UMD

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Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Christine Hartzell
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Maryland
Application Due Date: Wednesday, November 01 2023
Web Link: https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/112040

The Planetary Surfaces and Spacecraft Lab at the University of Maryland, College Park is hiring multiple postdoctoral researchers. We are looking for experimentalists with experience working with vacuum systems, plasma physics, and/or granular materials and an interest in developing technology to remove lunar regolith from spacesuits and solar panels. The goal of this project is to demonstrate the functionality of a specialized lunar “lint roller” that uses synthetic gecko skin to remove dust, rather than a traditional adhesive. Additionally, we will be developing a cleaning appliance to make the gecko roller reusable. One investigator will build and operationalize a new UHV chamber system and test the gecko roller at lunar-relevant pressures. Other investigators will design, build and test the efficacy of the cleaning appliance, which will rely on electrostatic lofting. The expected start date is Jan 2024 or earlier.

For questions, please contact Christine Hartzell, [email protected].

To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter to https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/112040

Assistant Professor in Planetary Science

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Department: Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences
City: Provience
State/Province: Rhode Island
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Ralph Milliken
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Brown University
Application Due Date: Monday, September 25 2023
Web Link: http://apply.interfolio.com/127244

The Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences at Brown University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Planetary Science.  Ideal candidates are those working on fundamental geological processes applicable across multiple Solar System bodies and who would broaden and enhance existing departmental strengths in remote sensing, geophysics, planetary materials,
climate and environmental science, and geochemistry. We encourage candidates from all fields of planetary science to apply.

The successful candidate will be expected to maintain an active, externally-funded research program, enjoy a commitment to teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels, and contribute to the academic community of the department and university. Diversity, equity and inclusion are integral to the mission of the Department and University. Accordingly, the Department seeks qualified candidates who can
contribute to racial and gender equity, diversity, and inclusion through service, mentorship, teaching, and/or scholarship. The Department is keenly interested in diversifying its faculty and encourages applications from diverse candidates.

The appointment will begin on July 1, 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter. A Ph.D. or equivalent is required by time of appointment. To apply, please submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, statements describing your planned activities in research, teaching, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, and contact information for three references via interfolio. To apply, visit:  apply.interfolio.com/127244

Review of applications will begin on Sept. 25, 2023. To receive full consideration applicants should submit all materials by that date. For further information contact the search committee chair, Ralph Milliken ([email protected]).

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Planetary Science

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City: Beijing
State/Province: Beijing
Category: , , , ,
Country: China
Contact Person: Steve Yang Liu
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: National Space Science Center
Application Due Date: Wednesday, May 31 2023

The planetary science group of the National Space Science Center (NSSC), Chinese Academy of Sciences seeks 2-3 postdoc applicants for positions in the filed of planetary science.

China will carry out more deep space exploration missions in the next 10 to 15 years. The fourth stage of its lunar exploration program has been approved, including Chang’e-6, Chang’e-7, and Chang’e-8. The next step of the planetary exploration program is also planed. China will implement Tianwen-2 for asteroid sample return, Tianwen-3 for Mars sample return, and Tianwen-4 for Jupiter system exploration.

The planetary science group in National Space Science Center (NSSC) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) is deeply involved in the lunar and planetary missions of China. We’re the scientific team members of Chang’e-4 and -5 mission as well as Tianwen-1 Mars mission. Our research fields include planetary geology, remote sensing, spectroscopy, and sample analysis. We focus on topics including the evolution of the Moon and Earth-Moon system, the geological evolution and habitability of terrestrial planets including Mars, and the composition and evolution of small bodies. We now have 12 members, including 3 professors, 3 associate professors, and 6 postdocs.

Requirement: Ph.D. in planetary science and related field, fluent in English speaking.

Length: 2 years program with a possible 1 year extension.

Salary: 250,000 RMB per year,  plus subsidy for apartment renting and one round trip flight ticket.

If you are interested, please send your CV to Prof. Steve Yang Liu. Email: [email protected]

Postdoctoral Earth and Planetary Science Fellowship

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Department: Center for Earth and Planetary Studies
City: Washington
State/Province: DC
Category: , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Ross Irwin & Emily Martin
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: National Air and Space Museum
Application Due Date: Friday, March 31 2023
Web Link: https://fellowships.si.edu/opportunity/postdoctoral-earth-and-planetary-sciences-fellowship

POSTDOCTORAL EARTH AND PLANETARY SCIENCES FELLOWSHIPS AT THE SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM 

The Smithsonian Institution, National Air and Space Museum, Center for Earth and Planetary Studies (CEPS) in Washington, DC welcomes applications for two postdoctoral fellowships. 

Scientists in CEPS primarily focus on planetary geologic and geophysical processes that have shaped the surfaces of rocky and icy bodies in the solar system including the Earth and Moon. CEPS scientists are actively involved in field analog research and many of NASA’s and ESA’s current and planned planetary robotic missions. 

The fellowships have a term of one to two years and a stipend of $74,950 plus up to $5,000 health allowance per year. Required application materials include a CV/resume, project/research proposal, and bibliography.  

Competitive proposals should demonstrate knowledge and expertise in areas such as quantitative remote sensing analysis, tectonics and tectonophysics, volcanic processes, and quantitative terrestrial and planetary geomorphology. Proposals focused on Mars or icy moons of the outer solar system are particularly encouraged. The application deadline is Friday, March 31, 2023. 

More details and the application process are posted here: 

https://fellowships.si.edu/opportunity/postdoctoral-earth-and-planetary-sciences-fellowship 

For questions, email Ross Irwin ([email protected]) or Emily Martin ([email protected]). 

 

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.

Postdoctoral researcher, Mars rover science/operations and Mars data analysis

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Department: Department of the Geophysical Sciences
City: Chicago
State/Province: IL
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Edwin Kite
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Chicago
Application Due Date: Saturday, April 08 2023
Web Link: http://sseh.uchicago.edu

The University of Chicago’s Department of Geophysical Sciences seeks to hire a postdoctoral researcher to support Mars data analysis projects (a Mars Science Laboratory Participating Scientist grant on the timing and flow of surface and subsurface water at Gale crater, and a Mars Data Analysis Program grant on global and stratigraphic variations in sediment layer thicknesses on Mars). The successful candidate will work with Associate Professor Edwin Kite to take part in Mars Science Laboratory science and operations, and analyze existing HiRISE Digital Terrain Models. The balance between rover and orbiter work will be chosen according to the preferences of the successful candidate.

Candidates should have a background in planetary science. Experience with rover operations, and/or Mars orbiter data analysis, is preferred but not required. This is primarily a data analysis position and modeling skills are not required though would be a welcome bonus. A start date in mid-to-late-2023 is preferred. This postdoctoral position will be for one year and funding is secured for renewal for a second year, contingent on satisfactory progress. The position comes with a competitive salary and generous benefits.

Review of applications will begin on April 8, 2023. Please send a CV, a brief description of research interests, and a list of publications as a single PDF file to [email protected]. Applicants should send the names and email addresses of 2-3 referees to this email address. Please direct informal inquiries about this post to Edwin Kite ([email protected]).

The University of Chicago hosts a vibrant planets and exoplanets research program, with particular emphasis on Mars, planetary sample analysis, and habitability: https://geosci.uchicago.edu/research/planetary-sciences-and-cosmochemistry/

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/EO/D/V Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University’s Notice of Nondiscrimination. The University’s Statements on Diversity are at https://provost.uchicago.edu/statements-diversity. UChicago seeks a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages diverse perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email [email protected] with their request.

Postdoc in Mars Geology at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum

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Department: Center for Earth and Planetary Studies
City: Washington
State/Province: DC
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Sharon Purdy
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Smithsonian Institution
Application Due Date: Friday, February 17 2023
Web Link: https://www.si.edu/content/ohr/SITrustVacs/SITRUST-23-NASM0201.pdf

JOB OPENING: POSTDOC IN MARS GEOLOGY/GEOMOPRHOLOGY AT THE SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM 

The Smithsonian Institution, National Air and Space Museum (NASM), Center for Earth and Planetary Studies (CEPS) in Washington, DC welcomes applications for a postdoctoral position.

Research areas for the position include analysis of:

  1. Geologic mapping of Mars, including relevant data analysis, and drafting text and figures for peer-reviewed publications.
  2. Geomorphic and topographic analyses of fluvial landforms using Mars orbiter and rover data, including relatively young fluvial landforms on impact craters.
  3. Participation on the Science Operations Team for Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity rover; and field studies of Mars analog landforms.

Applicants must demonstrate experience in analysis of Earth or planetary datasets. A background in quantitative terrestrial or planetary geology and experience with geographic information systems analysis of imaging and topography are desired.

This is a full-time, 2-year position in Washington, DC with benefits. The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

More details and application process here: https://www.si.edu/content/ohr/SITrustVacs/SITRUST-23-NASM0201.pdf

Application deadline is 5pm (Eastern time) on February 17, 2023.

For questions, email Sharon Wilson Purdy ([email protected]) or Ross Irwin ([email protected]).