Postdoctoral Associate - Center for Planetary Origins to Habitability, Rice Space Institute

Position Summary

The Center for Planetary Origins to Habitability (CPO2H) of the Rice Space Institute (RSI) is seeking applications for a postdoctoral associate position to conduct independent research that contributes to the scientific mission of the newly established center. The center's areas of interest span a broad range of topics, including the formation and evolution of planetary systems, the origin, delivery, distribution, and cycling of life-essential elements on planets, the interaction between planets and their host stars, comparative planetology, processes and properties of planetary interiors, the physical and chemical interactions between the interiors and planetary surface environments, using Earth history to understand evolution of planetary systems, the emergence of life, and coupled evolution of life and planetary environments. Scholars with a record of cutting-edge research in any sub-disciplines of Earth and planetary sciences, astrobiology, astronomy/astrophysics, and space science are particularly encouraged to apply.

The successful candidate will interact closely with Rice University Earth and planetary scientists, astrophysicists, and space physicists using observations, laboratory experiments, geo- and cosmochemical analyses, theory, and numerical models. The successful candidate is likely to be hosted in either the Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences or the Department of Physics & Astronomy; however, they can collaborate with any member of the Rice community.

The appointment will be for two years, renewable for a third year upon funding availability and based on progress and performance. The start date is negotiable.

Special Instructions to Applicants

The following documents must be submitted to receive full consideration for the position. (a) Curriculum vitae with a list of publications, (b) a two-page statement of research interests and past research accomplishments, (c) and at least three letters of recommendation. The application materials should be sent to origins2habitability@rice.edu, by the applicants and the referees.

The application deadline is February 15, 2025.

For questions, please contact origins2habitability@rice.edu

Proposed Hiring Range:

The initial annual salary for the RSI Center for Planetary Origins to Habitability Postdoctoral Associate will be comparable to other Earth and planetary science, astronomy, and astrobiology prize fellowships. It is subject to annual review and adjustment. In addition, the RSI Postdoctoral Associate will receive support for travel, computing services, publications, and other research costs.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Earth Sciences, Planetary Science, Geophysics, Astrobiology, Astrophysics, Space Physics, or a related field at the time of the appointment. Preference will be given to candidates who have completed their PhD no earlier than December 2019.
• No experience required

Skills Required

• Proficiency in the areas of specialization listed above, encompassing possession, comprehension, and application of comprehensive knowledge.
• Excellent communication skills to articulate their research findings orally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision and direction
• Ability to collaborate in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Strong mentoring capabilities, to foster the growth and development of peers and junior researchers within the academic community.

Essential Functions

• Perform experiments, analyzes data, and/or develops models to understand the formation and evolution of planets, as well as the onset of planetary habitability.
• Publishes and present research findings
• Supports project management and collaboration across institutions or disciplines.
• Mentors, oversees, and/or trains junior research team members

Rice University HR | Benefits 

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Rice Mission and Values

Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with commitment to diversity at all levels and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and the full inclusion of all qualified persons in the workplace. This commitment includes providing reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities. For applicants with disabilities who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact Rice University’s Disability Resource Center at 713-348-5841 or adarice@rice.edu for support.