Planetary Research Jobs

Job announcements for planetary science

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Category: Postdocs and fellowships

Institution: Brown University

Department: Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences

Location: Providence, Rhode Island, USA

Work arrangement: In person

Number of positions: 1

Application deadline: 2026-07-26

Start date: 2026-08-01

Official announcement:

Inquiries: Yongsong Huang

Posted: 2026-07-11

Posted by: 0009-0004-3750-1180

Job Description

Description

We are searching for a postdoctoral research associate to join a NASA funded project. The research includes analyses of extraterrestrial samples (carbonaceous meteorites, asteroid samples) using various chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques, as well as construction of an interactive GCMS and chromatography database for organic compounds in extraterrestrial samples.

For this position, Brown offers only the J-1 visa classification to scholars who need immigration sponsorship in order to enter the U.S. and commence lawful employment under the terms of their appointment

Qualifications

The candidate should have a strong background in analytical organic chemistry using various GC, HPLC/UPLC, and mass spectrometry techniques, with a Ph.D. in Analytical chemistry, Organic Geochemistry, astrobiology or related fields. Past experience in meteorite and asteroid research is a plus but not absolutely required. The ideal candidate should also have significant experience and expertise in MATLAB and/or Python coding as well as strong motivation in applying artificial intelligence in analyzing complex organic assemblages and discovery of new proxies for various Cosmo-organic chemical processes. Strong motivation and interest in academic research in cosmo-organic chemistry and/or origin of life topics are important. The postdoctoral research associate will be directly supervised by Prof. Yongsong Huang, with collaboration with Dr. Philipp Heck at University of Chicago. Development of novel internal and external collaborations is strongly encouraged.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and a 3-5 page statement of research that includes a summary of research accomplishments, current research goals, and a short overview of proposed research to be conducted during the fellowship. Candidates should address how they would contribute to the research mission of our diverse and inclusive living-learning community. Applications should be submitted via https://apply.interfolio.com/187932 Review of applications will begin on June 15, 2026.

This institution is using Interfolio's Faculty Search to conduct this search. Applicants to this position receive a free Dossier account and can send all application materials, including confidential letters of recommendation, free of charge.

Apply Now

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.