Category: Theory

Research Physical Scientist

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Astrogeology Science Center
City: FLAGSTAFF
State/Province: ARIZONA
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Earl Emerson
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: U. S. Geological Survey
Application Due Date: Wednesday, February 12 2020
Web Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/557280200

Planetary geologic maps have been funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and published by the USGS since 1961. The USGS Planetary Geologic Mapping Group at the Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff, AZ is critically involved in the scientific and technical aspects of geologic mapping process in support of NASA programs. This position is for a Research Physical Scientist to fill the Tanaka-Greeley Fellowship within the USGS Planetary Geologic Mapping Group in Flagstaff, AZ. 

The position will primarily support the coordination, review, and production of NASA-funded planetary geologic mapping projects by both USGS and non-USGS geologists and space scientists and work closely with USGS scientists, cartographers, and data specialists to develop, establish, and implement best practices and standards. The position will also work both individually and as a team to create original geologic maps of high priority regions of the Moon and Mars in support of USGS and NASA goals. 

As a Research Physical Scientist within the Astrogeology Science Center, some of your specific duties will include:

  • Develop techniques and procedures to create high-precision planetary geologic maps
  • Assist with the technical and scientific review of planetary geologic maps
  • Assist with and lead the preparation of scientific and technical articles derived from planetary geologic mapping-based investigations
  • Develop and promulgate new planetary cartographic standards in order to maximize the consistent use and representation of planetary geologic maps and map-supportive data
  • Assist authors and USGS in the preparation of geologic map components for eventual publication
  • Generate GIS databases of specified data, building thematic data layers
  • Manage geospatial databases and data files
  • Train and direct other personnel in the geologic mapping process, use of mapping standards, GIS technologies, feature and map databases, and/or the use of GIS analysis tools

Staff Scientist in Astronomy or Planetary Science

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Division of Earth and Planets (formerly DTM/GL)
City: Washington
State/Province: District of Columbia
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Carnegie Institution for Science
Application Due Date: Sunday, February 18 2018
Web Link: https://jobs.carnegiescience.edu/jobs/staff-scientist-in-astronomy-or-planetary-science/

The Carnegie Institution for Science (Washington, DC campus) invites applications for a staff scientist in astronomy or planetary science.  We are particularly interested in candidates with research emphases in laboratory experiment, theory, or observation of planet formation or (exo)planetary atmospheres. We encourage applications from those interested in cross-disciplinary areas that complement or expand our existing strengths in Earth, planetary, and exoplanet science. We are committed to enhancing the diversity of our staff and welcome applications from individuals with a diverse set of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives.

The Carnegie Institution is a basic research organization committed to exploring intriguing scientific questions.  Carnegie staff scientists hold 12-month salaried appointments and pursue independent research supported by a combination of endowment and federal funds.  Staff scientists do not have teaching duties, but we place considerable emphasis on mentoring postdoctoral scholars.

Carnegie’s Department of Terrestrial Magnetism and Geophysical Laboratory are merging into a single division that will continue to provide staff scientists with the resources to pursue fundamental research on planet formation, (exo)planets, and planetary evolution, including state-of-the-art laboratories, computer clusters, and a partnership with Carnegie’s Observatories that includes access to Las Campanas Observatory.  In a separate ad, we are searching for a second staff scientist with interests in planetary petrology, magmatic volatiles, or geo/cosmochemical approaches to planet evolution. Information about our current research programs can be found at http://dtm.carnegiescience.edu/research and https://gl.carnegiescience.edu/our-research.  Our vision for interdisciplinary planetary research can be found at https://planets.carnegiescience.edu/.  Applicants should have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree and propose a world-class research program.

To apply, please submit (1) cover letter with the names and addresses of three references, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) list of publications, (4) abstracts of your two most relevant and important papers, (5) a 2-3 page summary of previous research, and (6) a research plan of up to 5 pages through the “Apply Now” button below.  You may email [email protected] with any questions.

Review of applications will begin immediately with a deadline of 18 February 2020.

The Carnegie Institution is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, race/ethnicity, protected veteran status, disability, or other protected group status.

Planetary Science Faculty Position at the University of Michigan

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Climate and Space Science and Engineering
City: Ann Arbor
State/Province: Michigan
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Jeremy Bassis
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Michigan
Application Due Date: Friday, November 15 2019
Web Link: https://clasp.engin.umich.edu/stories/faculty-position-in-planetary-science/

The Department of Climate and Space Sciences and Engineeringin the College of Engineering at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor invites applications for a tenure track faculty position in the field of planetary science.  Although the position is open to all ranks, we especially seek candidates at the Assistant Professor level. We look for candidates who are capable of developing an internationally recognized research program, successfully competing for external funding, mentoring doctoral students, and participating in our educational programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels.  We welcome applications from candidates whose research addresses cross-disciplinary areas that build upon our existing strengths in climate science (including radiative transfer, atmospheric dynamics/chemistry and cryospheric processes), composition, structure, chemistry, and the origin and evolution of planetary atmospheres, planetary surface-atmosphere coupling, and the development of space instrumentation and missions. We are especially interested in candidates with a strong motivation for building bridges between planetary science, including exoplanets, and the climate and space science research programs in our department.  

Applications should include a cover letter, CV, research and teaching statements, a statement describing any activities, contributions, or plans related to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and a list of four references with contact details. For full consideration, applications compiled into a single PDF should be received before November 15th, 2019. Applications should be addressed to [email protected]. Questions about the position or application process can be directed to the search committee chair Jeremy Bassis ([email protected]).

University of Michigan is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. CLASP and the College of Engineering are especially interested in exceptionally well qualified candidates who will contribute, through their research, teaching, and service, to the diversity and excellence of the academic community. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. The University is also responsive to the needs of dual-career couples. The University is a non-discriminatory, affirmative action Employer.

Michigan Engineering’s vision is to be the world’s preeminent college of engineering serving the common good. This global outlook, leadership focus, and service commitment permeate our culture. Our vision is supported by a mission and values that, together, provide the framework for all that we do.  Information about our vision, mission and values can be found at: http://strategicvision.engin.umich.edu/.

The University of Michigan has a storied legacy of commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). The Michigan Engineering component of the University’s comprehensive, five-year, DEI strategic plan—with updates on our programs and resources dedicated to ensuring a welcoming, fair, and inclusive environment—can be found at: http://www.engin.umich.edu/college/about/diversity.

Postdoctoral Scholar in Earth and Planetary Sciences at UCR

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Current state: Approved
Department: Earth and Planetary Sciences
City: Riverside
State/Province: California
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Maryjo Brounce
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of California Riverside
Application Due Date: Sunday, December 01 2019

I am seeking to hire a post-doctoral researcher in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Riverside to pursue independent research in my group. I am seeking a researcher who would work on project(s) that is/are broadly related to my research interests. My research has been focused on the effect of bulk redox conditions and volatile contents on igneous rock-forming processes, and the processes that link the compositions of surface environments and the deep interiors of Earth and other rocky planets. The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at UCR has a diverse faculty with expertise ranging from exoplanets, seismicity and fault motions, deep Earth structure, paleoceanography paleoclimate, Earth history, and organic geochemistry. I am particularly interested in researchers who can describe a vision for collaborative and cross-disciplinary work, within our departmental expertise and/or beyond. Appointment will be for one year, with the option to renew for a second year pending satisfactory progress.                                                                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                                                                                  
Job Requirements: Skills: A Ph.D. in Earth Sciences or a closely related field, with laboratory, analytical, experimental, and/or theoretical experience in geochemistry, igneous, and/or metamorphic petrology. The successful candidate must possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication (both verbal and written) skills, including a strong record of peer-reviewed publications. Ability to work collaboratively in a department with diverse research interests is required.
                                                                                                                                                                                    
To Apply: Please send: (1) a cover letter, (2) a short (two page) research proposal, and (3) a curriculum vitae directly to Dr. Maryjo Brounce at [email protected]. Additionally, please have three references send letters of recommendation on your behalf directly to Dr. Maryjo Brounce (at [email protected]). Applications received prior to December 1, 2019 will be given priority consideration.                                                 
                                                                                                                                                                                    
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer with a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                    
UCR is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification.
 

Carnegie Venture Postdoctoral Researcher in Super-Earth Interiors

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Terrestrial Magnetism & Geophysical Lab
City: Washington
State/Province: District of Columbia
Category: , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Peter Driscoll
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Carnegie Institution for Science
Application Due Date: Sunday, December 01 2019
Web Link: https://jobs.carnegiescience.edu/jobs/dtm/

Job Summary
A postdoctoral position is available at the Carnegie Institution for Science in Washington, DC. The position is funded by a Carnegie Venture Grant to study the internal structure and dynamics of super- Earth exoplanets in collaboration with Staff Scientists Peter Driscoll and Sally June Tracy. This is an interdisciplinary project where the postdoc will combine dynamic compression experiments on carbon- bearing materials in collaboration with Dr. Tracy with theoretical modeling performed in collaboration with Dr. Driscoll to better understand the physical properties and evolution of exoplanets.

The position requires a highly motivated applicant with an interest in high pressure and temperature physics and chemistry, planetary internal dynamics and evolution, and applications to exoplanets. The candidate should have a background in either high-pressure experiments or the dynamics of deep interiors. The postdoc will be free to pursue their own research interests in addition to this project.

The position will be for 2 years and

Qualifications
Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a related field by the time of appointment and a promising record of research and publication. Research experience in either high pressure experiments or the dynamics of deep interiors is preferred.

To Apply
A curriculum vitae, a statement of research interest, and contact information for three references should be submitted through the Apply Now link below by December 1, 2019. Apply online at: jobs.carnegiescience.edu/jobs/dtm/. Address any questions about the position to Peter Driscoll ([email protected]) or Sally June Tracy ([email protected]).

Additional Information
Scientific computing resources available to the campus include the Carnegie Memex cluster (2500+ cores) in addition to local computing resources. There are extensive facilities and equipment to support high-pressure experimental research including multi-anvil apparatus, piston-cylinder devices, and diamond-anvil cells for ultra-high-pressure and temperature experiments. Chemical and sample characterization facilities on campus include a field-emission electron microprobe, a thermal field- emission Scanning Electron Microscope and a focused ion beam/scanning electron microscope system. Analytical equipment includes micro-Raman spectroscopic systems, and a Rigaku X-ray microdiffractometer with imaging plate for sample identification.

The Carnegie Institution is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, race/ethnicity, protected veteran status, disability, or other protected group status.

Professor

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Physics and Astronomy
City: Provo
State/Province: UT
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Justin Peatross
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Brigham Young University
Application Due Date: Tuesday, October 15 2019
Web Link: https://jobregister.aas.org/ad/3ba77a1d

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah, invites applications for potentially three faculty positions to begin August 2020. The new faculty members will be expected to provide excellent teaching and research mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Successful applicants will be also expected to develop externally-funded research programs of significance. We anticipate hiring at least one candidate in the area of observational astronomy, but those in other areas of astronomy and astrophysics are also encouraged to apply.

The BYU Department of Physics and Astronomy operates a number of telescope facilities. The West Mountain Observatory operates three telescopes ranging from 0.32-m to 0.92-m atop a 6,850 ft mountain with reasonably dark skies. The campus observatory is made up of six robotic telescopes ranging from 0.13-m to 0.6-m. Our ROVOR facility contains an 0.5-m robotic/remote telescope. In addition, we have a significant number of nodes on the campus supercomputer which can be used for computational efforts. Finally, we operate a 119 seat planetarium that is used for education and outreach.

Interested candidates should complete an online faculty application at yjobs.byu.edu (posting 84092 under Faculty Positions) with current CV, a cover letter outlining teaching and research experience and aspirations, and also the name and contacts of three people willing to provide letters of recommendations. Applications must be received by October 15. For additional information, contact the chair of the faculty search committee at [email protected]. BYU, an equal opportunity employer, requires all faculty members to observe the university’s honor code and dress and grooming standards. Preference is given to qualified candidates who are members in good standing of the affiliated church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Contact Darin Ragozzine for questions about how planetary scientists could work well in the Department of Physics & Astronomy.  

Assistant or Associate Professor in Planetary Science

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
City: West Lafayette
State/Province: IN
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: David Minton
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Purdue University
Application Due Date: Monday, December 31 2018
Web Link: http://www.eaps.purdue.edu/docs/employment/Planetary-Atmospheres-Ad.pdf

Tenure track position(s) in Planetary Science, Purdue University                                                                                 

The Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (EAPS), within the College of Science at Purdue University, invites applications for one or more tenure-track faculty positions in planetary atmospheres and/or planetary physics. These appointments will be at the level of Assistant or Associate Professor. Growth in planetary science is part of large-scale interdisciplinary hiring effort across key strategic areas in the College of Science.  This position comes at a time when the College is under new leadership and with multiple commitments of significant investment.

Candidates should be able to develop a vigorous, externally funded, internationally recognized theoretical, experimental, and/or observational research program that addresses research questions of fundamental importance. Possible areas of study in planetary atmospheres could include observing and/or modeling of the atmospheres of jovian, terrestrial, exosolar planets or small bodies, and/or the origin of life and habitability. Possible areas of study in planetary physics could include computer modeling of impact processes, planetary origins, or planetary interiors.

Candidates are expected to develop a program that is complementary to existing research within the department and teaching needs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The potential to develop interdisciplinary, collaborative research that cuts across specialty areas within the department, the College of Science, and Purdue’s research community is desirable. Candidates must have completed their Ph.D. in Planetary Sciences or related field at the time of employment. Within EAPS and Purdue, candidates will find supportive colleagues, a diverse and vibrant academic community, with ample opportunities for professional and personal growth.

Purdue University’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences is committed to advancing diversity in all areas of faculty effort, including scholarship, instruction, and engagement. Candidates should address at least one of these areas in their cover letter, indicating their past experiences, current interests or activities, and/or future goals to promote a climate that values diversity and inclusion.

Interested applicants should visit https://hiring.science.purdue.edu, submit a curriculum vitae, a research statement, a teaching statement, and complete contact information for at least 3 references. Review of applications will begin January 2, 2019, and will continue until the position is filled. Questions related to this position should be sent to David Minton ([email protected]). Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. A background check will be required for employment in this position. Purdue University is an ADVANCE institution.

Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

NASA Astrobiology Postdoctoral Opportunity at University of Hawaii

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology
City: Honolulu
State/Province: HI
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Sarah Fagents
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Hawai'i
Application Due Date: Thursday, November 01 2018

Postdoctoral Research Opportunity at the University of Hawaii: Fluid migration in Titan’s ice shell

As part of the new NASA Astrobiology Institute (NAI) project “Habitability of Hydrocarbon Worlds: Titan and Beyond”, we are investigating the mechanisms and pathways by which biosignature-hosting materials might be transported from a habitable ocean environment to the surface, where they could be recognized by remote sensing instruments.  These mechanisms might include cryovolcanism, solid state convection in the ice shell, fracture/fault propagation, and the formation of subsurface fluid reservoirs that might facilitate fluid migration to the surface. See nai.nasa.gov/teams/can-8/jpl-titan/ for a more detailed description of the overall project.

An opportunity exists in this area for a postdoctoral researcher to develop a proposal for the NASA Astrobiology Postdoctoral Program, for a project to be pursued at the University of Hawaii.  The desired candidate will have a solid physics, math, or geology/geophysics background, and interests/expertise in numerical modeling, cryomagmatism, ice physics, Titan and/or other icy satellites.  The next deadlines for this program are November 1 and March 1.  If the proposal is selected for funding, the anticipated start dates would be spring/summer 2019 or fall 2019, respectively.  More details are available at nai.nasa.gov/funding/postdoctoral-fellowship-program

Please contact Sarah Fagents at [email protected] for more information.

Graduate Research Opportunity at the University of Hawaii: Fluid Migration in Titan’s Ice Shell

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Hawaii Institute of Geophysics and Planetology / Department of Earth Sciences
City: Honolulu
State/Province: HI
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Sarah Fagents
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Hawai'i
Application Due Date: Tuesday, January 15 2019

Graduate Research Opportunity at the University of Hawaii: Fluid Migration in Titan’s Ice Shell

As part of the new NASA Astrobiology Institute (NAI) project “Habitability of Hydrocarbon Worlds: Titan and Beyond”, we are investigating the mechanisms and pathways by which biosignature-hosting materials might be transported from a habitable ocean environment to the surface, where they could be recognized by remote sensing instruments.  These mechanisms might include cryovolcanism, solid state convection in the ice shell, fracture/fault propagation, and the formation of subsurface fluid reservoirs that might facilitate fluid migration to the surface. See nai.nasa.gov/teams/can-8/jpl-titan/ for a more detailed description of the overall project.

An opportunity exists in this area at the University of Hawaii (UH) for a graduate student to pursue their PhD, enrolled through the Department of Earth Sciences (formerly known as Geology and Geophysics; www.soest.hawaii.edu/GG/), but hosted within the Hawaii Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP; www.higp.hawaii.edu).  The deadline for applying to graduate school at UH is January 15 for Fall 2019 admission; more details at www.soest.hawaii.edu/GG/admissions/gg_admissions.html

The desired candidate will have a solid physics, math, or geology/geophysics background, and interests/expertise in numerical modeling, cryomagmatism, ice physics, Titan and/or other icy satellites.

Please contact Sarah Fagents at [email protected] for more information.

Physics & Astronomy Faculty

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Physics & Astronomy
City: Provo
State/Province: UT
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Jean-Francois Van Huele
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Brigham Young University
Application Due Date: Wednesday, November 15 2017
Web Link: https://jobs.physicstoday.org/jobs/10347010

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah, invites applications for a faculty position to begin in August 2018.  The new faculty member will be expected to provide excellent teaching and research mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate levels. All new faculty members are also expected to develop externally-funded research programs of significance. We are seeking applicants in the fields of Acoustics, Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics, Astronomy, Condensed Matter Physics, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Numerical Relativity, Physics Education Research/Astronomy Education Research, Plasma Physics, Quantum Information, or Theoretical Physics to strengthen and complement existing research programs (see http://www.physics.byu.edu). Interested candidates should complete an online faculty application at https://yjobs.byu.edu (posting 66856), with a cover letter outlining teaching and research experience and aspirations, a current CV, and provide the contact information for three references. For additional info, contact [email protected]. Completed applications received by November 15, 2017 will be given full consideration. BYU, an equal opportunity employer, requires all faculty members to observe the university’s honor code and dress and grooming standards.  Preference is given to qualified candidates who are members in good standing of the affiliated church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.