Planetary Research Jobs

The 51 Pegasi b Fellowship provides an opportunity for recent doctoral scientists to develop innovative instrumentation or to conduct novel theoretical and observational research in planetary astronomy. Planetary astronomy brings together research efforts of two fields—planetary science and astronomy—to characterize planetary systems. The fellowship supports postdoctoral fellows to advance our fundamental understanding of exoplanets, solar system science, planet formation and evolution, planetary atmospheres, protoplanetary disks, or other closely related topics.

The fellowship recognizes early-career investigators of significant potential and provides them with the opportunity toconduct independent research. Each recipient will receive a 3 three-year grant of up to $492,000 to cover salary, benefits, highly-flexible discretionary spending related to the work (e.g., travel, family care, moving expenses, research equipment, personal computers, etc.), and indirect costs. Awarded postdoctoral fellows are expected to carry out a strong, coherent research program in planetary astronomy. Assuming satisfactory progress, fellows may apply for a fourth year of funding.

The Heising-Simons Foundation anticipates awarding six to eight fellowships each year. The Foundation is dedicated to fostering an environment that embraces and celebrates a wide range of perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals whose backgrounds are underrepresented in planetary astronomy, and whose innovative ideas can have catalytic impacts on the field.

The 51 Pegasi b 2026/2027 application period is now open. Applicants will be notified about the status of their applications by mid-February.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Applicants may come from any academic institution or research lab, both nationally and internationally.

1. Applicants are not required to have U.S. citizenship; however, all visa and work permit paperwork is the responsibility of the fellow and host institution.
2. Applicants must have received a doctoral degree in astronomy, physics, earth and planetary sciences, chemistry, mathematics, engineering, or a related discipline.
3. Doctoral degrees must be awarded after January 1, 2025 and before December 31, 2027. Exceptions due to extenuating circumstances (i.e., family or medical leave that extend this window by up to one year) may be granted on a case-by-case basis. To request an exception, please email science@hsfoundation.org.
4. 51 Pegasi b Fellowship research must be pursued at one of the 28 following participating institutions.

If you have any questions about research collaborations, faculty mentors, resources at these host institutions, etc., please contact the people listed here.