Ph.D. positions
Fully Funded PhD Positions in Cosmochemistry and Meteoritics
SUMMARY
InstitutionRice University
DepartmentEarth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences
LocationHouston, United States
Work arrangementIn person
Duration4-5 years
Salary$34,000-$40,000
Number of positions2
Application deadline2026-12-31
Start date2027-08-01
InquiriesBidong Zhang
Posted2026-10-08
Posted by0000-0002-1729-3773
JOB DESCRIPTION
We are looking for two fully funded PhD students to join the RARE Lab at Rice University in Spring and Fall 2027. Each position provides five years of full financial support.
Our research focuses on cosmochemistry, meteoritics, isotope geochemistry, and geochronology. We study mission-returned planetary samples and meteorites to understand planetary formation and evolution and the early history of the Solar System. Current research areas include:
• Lunar evolution: Using returned lunar samples and lunar meteorites to study lunar magma ocean crystallization, crust formation, magmatic evolution, and impact history.
• Geochronology method development: Developing and applying new in situ geochronology methods, with a focus on LA-MC-ICP-MS/MS and SIMS.
• Martian geochronology: Studying the formation and evolution of Martian rocks and developing geochronology methods for Martian and other planetary materials.
• Iron meteorites and highly siderophile elements: Using iron meteorites and highly siderophile element geochemistry to study core formation, planetary differentiation, and early Solar System evolution.
The RARE Lab is building a new analytical platform for microanalytical and isotope measurements. Major instruments include a Keyence VHX-1 digital microscope, JEOL IT200 SEM, ESI 193 nm excimer laser ablation system, and Thermo Scientific Neoma MC-ICP-MS/MS.
We welcome applications from students with backgrounds in geochemistry, geology, planetary science, chemistry, or related fields who are interested in laboratory research, analytical method development, and planetary science. Previous research experience in cosmochemistry or meteoritics is helpful but is not required. More about the RARE lab: https://www.bidongzhang.com/
Application deadlines:
• Spring 2027: October 31, 2026 (10:59 p.m. CST / 11:59 p.m. EST)
• Fall 2027: January 9, 2027 (10:59 p.m. CST / 11:59 p.m. EST)
If you are interested in joining our group or would like to learn more about our research, please feel free to contact me at bidong@rice.edu. Please include your CV and a brief description of your research background and interests.