Planetary Research Jobs

The Planetary Volcanology Lab in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Riverside, led by Dr. Joana Voigt, invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in planetary volcanology. The successful candidate will investigate the evolution of the youngest volcanic terrains on Mars and relevant volcanic analog field sites on Earth. The position is fully funded through several NASA-supported projects and is offered for an initial two-year period, with the possibility of extension. The anticipated start date is as early as October 1, 2026. Salary will range from $66,737 to $80, 034 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience, in accordance with University of California guidelines. See https://graduate.ucr.edu/postdoctoral-studies.

Research Focus: The successful applicant will investigate the evolution of the youngest volcanic terrains on Mars, including Elysium Planitia, Amazonis Planitia, and volcanic plains within the Tharsis volcanic province; as well as their terrestrial analogs. By integrating orbital mission datasets, such as CTX and SHARAD, with lava emplacement modeling, including constraints on effusion rates, the project will contribute to a better understanding of the recent and potentially current volcanological state of Mars. Earth analog field sites will also be used to help constrain the interpretation of planetary observations. Depending on the applicant’s qualifications and research interests, the position may emphasize orbital mission data analysis, lava flow modeling, UAS-based field data acquisition, or a combination of these approaches. The project will involve the use of diverse scientific software and analysis tools, including but not limited to ArcGIS Pro, JMARS, Python, and Agisoft Metashape.

Research Environment: The University of California, Riverside offers a vibrant, collaborative, and rapidly evolving research environment. The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences is home to a growing planetary science community, strengthened by two recent faculty hires in the field. The Planetary Volcanology Lab is part of this growing framework and benefits from strong institutional support, close collaboration with neighboring research groups, and an active national and international network, including NASA/JPL, Goddard Space Flight Center, and the German Aerospace Center. The group offers a collegial, supportive, and kind working atmosphere, with regular group meetings, career development support, mentoring opportunities, and opportunities to gain teaching experience, if desired.

Candidate Profile: Preferred qualifications include a PhD in planetary science, geoscience, geophysics, or a closely related field. Candidates with experience in and a strong interest in planetary volcanology, SHARAD analysis, lava flow modeling, and/or UAS-based field work are particularly welcome to apply. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience working with planetary remote sensing datasets, including imagery and radar sounding data, as well as GIS and coding experience. The successful candidate will be invited to play an active role in the newly formed research group, contribute to the broader university community, mentor students, support collaborative research activities within the group, and present their work at national and international meetings. We value diversity of background and thought, and applicants from underrepresented groups, non-traditional career paths, and a wide range of experiences are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply: To apply, please email Joana Voigt (joana.voigt@ucr.edu) a single combined PDF file containing: (1) a cover letter describing your research interests, relevant experience, and career goals, limited to 2 pages; (2) a CV, including a publication list; and (3) the names and contact information for 2–3 references. Degree completion is required by the start date of the appointment. The degree may be in planetary science, geoscience, geophysics, or a closely related field, ideally with a strong focus on volcanology. Review of applications will begin on September 1, 2026. For questions about the position, please contact Joana Voigt (joana.voigt@ucr.edu).