Postdoc: Lunar Volatiles

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 75,438 - 92,202; Full time

Job summary

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in planetary science to advance lunar petrology and geochemistry. The successful candidate will lead independent research, publish results, and collaborate with scientists across institutions.

Responsibilities include analyzing lunar samples, interpreting mineral chemistry and volatile data, and presenting findings at conferences.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Petrology, Geochemistry, Planetary Science, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of petrography, mineralogy, petrology, and geochemistry.
• Experience in microbeam analyses such as SEM, EMP, and SIMS.

Responsibilities

• Characterizing the texture of lunar samples
• Determining the mineral chemistry
• Measuring volatile abundances in minerals and glasses
• Interpreting the volatile data based on the petrogenesis of the sample
• Collaborating with scientists at different institutions to place observations in regional context to answer questions about the Moon’s differentiation and evolution

Skills

In-depth knowledge of petrography, min

Experience in microbeam analyses such

Education

Ph.D. in Petrology, Geochemistry, Planetary Science, or a related field

Job description

Overview

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations and share our discoveries to inspire future ones. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL offers a campus‑like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. We inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

Responsibilities

• Characterizing the texture of lunar samples
• Determining the mineral chemistry
• Measuring volatile abundances in minerals and glasses
• Interpreting the volatile data based on the petrogenesis of the sample
• Collaborating with scientists at different institutions to place observations in regional context to answer questions about the Moon’s differentiation and evolution

The postdoc is expected to lead conference abstracts and associated presentations, write and contribute to peer‑reviewed publications, and design and conduct independent research that enhances the tasks above.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Petrology, Geochemistry, Planetary Science, or a related field
• In-depth knowledge of petrography, mineralogy, petrology, and geochemistry
• Experience in microbeam analyses such as SEM, EMP, and SIMS

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of lunar science
• Demonstrated proficiency in writing peer-reviewed publications
• Demonstrated experience in writing/developing research grants or proposals

Compensation

Typical full-time equivalent annual hiring range: $83,820 – $83,820.

Benefits

JPL offers a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning opportunities, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave, and more. Benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

Application Process

Postdoc positions are awarded for a minimum of one-year periods and may be renewed up to a maximum of three years. Applicants should submit a CV, representative publications, contact information for three references, and a cover letter stating research accomplishments and interests.

EEO Statement

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status, or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law. In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision applies.

Additional Information

Due to NASA rules, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents, or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.

EOO Supplements

EEO is the Law. EEO is the Law Supplement.

Benefits and Perks

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks.