University of Arizona-posted 4 months ago
Full-time • Entry Level
Tucson, AZ
5,001-10,000 employees
Educational Services

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 discuss 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 a year-to-year appointment for a period of up to three years, renewable annually contingent on funding, department needs, and satisfactory performance. Position is opened until filled. First review of applications will begin 12/15/2025.

  • Conduct original research in collaboration with Prof. Sukrit Ranjan and his group related to the composition and structure of planetary atmospheres, with emphasis on terrestrial planet atmospheres inside and outside the solar system.
  • Negotiate specific topics of research based on mutual interest, focusing on hydrodynamic atmospheric escape, Martian geochemistry, and photochemical kinetics as applied to questions of astrobiological interest.
  • Participate in remote and in-person team meetings.
  • Present results at conferences.
  • Mentor junior colleagues.
  • Prepare original scientific research manuscripts.
  • PhD in the field of Planetary Science, Astronomy, Geoscience, or a related discipline by the start date of the position.
  • Experience with numerical modeling and programming.
  • Experience with modeling the climate, photochemistry, or escape of planetary or exoplanetary atmospheres.
  • Experience with modeling hydrodynamic escape from the upper atmospheres of terrestrial planets.
  • Experience with Venusian photochemistry.
  • Experience with interior-atmosphere interactions and outgassing.
  • Experience with or interest in mentoring junior scientists.
  • Experience leading peer-reviewed scientific publications.
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members.
  • Access to UA recreation and cultural activities.
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