Postdoctoral Scholar Series in Earth & Planetary Sciences

University of California - Riverside; Riverside (CA); On-site; USD 69,073 - 82,836; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Riverside invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. The role supports research and education, working under a faculty mentor to advance projects in astrobiology and planetary science.

Initial appointments are typically two years with possible renewal. Salary ranges from $69,073 to $82,836 and a start as soon as possible. Applicants with a Ph.D. by employment date are eligible to apply.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Earth and Planetary Sciences or related field by date of employment.
• Experience with cryo-vacuum equipment and analytical techniques.
• Interest in astrobiology, extraterrestrial geochemistry, and NASA-relevant questions.
• Willingness to learn across fields and acquire new skills as needed.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research and education programs in the department.
• Collaborate with a faculty mentor and research group to advance projects.
• Develop and apply research methods in astrobiology and planetary science.
• Prepare results for publication and presentations.

Skills

Coding in scientific computing

Education

Ph.D. in Earth and Planetary Sciences

Job description

Position Overview

Position title: POSTDOC-EMPLOYEE

Salary range: $69,073 to $82,836

Anticipated start: As soon as possible

Application Window

Open date: July 17, 2026

Next review date: Monday, Aug 17, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Wednesday, Jun 30, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Position Description

Postdoctoral Scholar Series in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences

The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Riverside anticipates openings for appointments in the Postdoctoral Scholar Series.

Postdoctoral Scholars contribute to the academic community by enhancing the research and education programs of the University. They bring expertise and creativity that enrich the research environment for all members of the University community, including graduate and undergraduate students. Postdoctoral Scholars work under the supervision of a faculty mentor and contribute to the intellectual environment of the research group and the broader academic community.

Candidates should demonstrate strong research potential, advanced knowledge in their area of study, and a commitment to further developing their expertise. Appointments in this series are intended to provide a period of advanced training and professional development in preparation for independent careers. Candidates should mention potential collaborators within the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences.

Initial appointments are typically for a two‑year term, subject to exceptions, and may be eligible for renewal. Salary and level will be determined based on qualifications and experience. The current base pay range for this position is $69,073 to $82,836.

Basic qualifications required at the time of application include Applicants must possess a Ph.D. degree in Earth and Planetary Sciences or a related field by date of employment.

Additional qualifications include experience in practical lab work involving cryo‑vacuum equipment and analytical techniques. The candidate must have a strong interest in astrobiology, extraterrestrial geochemistry, and NASA‑relevant questions. To solve research questions, the candidate must possess the self‑confidence and interest to learn aspects of different fields or new skills, as needed. Coding experience in a scientific computing language is an asset.

To apply, please submit the following materials to JPF02298 :

* Curriculum Vitae (required)

* Cover Letter (2‑page max limit)

* Contact information of two potential referees

Review of applications will begin on 17 August 2026.

For questions regarding application procedures or requirements, please contact Naudia Samuels Johnson, Academic Personnel, at [e-mail].

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under state or federal law. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti‑discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, State, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

Qualifications

Basic qualifications

Applicants must possess a Ph.D. degree in Earth and Planetary Sciences or a related field by date of employment.

Preferred qualifications

A commitment to the UCR mission is a preferred qualification.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter
• Misc./Additional (Optional)

Reference requirements

Reference Letters are not required for this recruitment.

Apply link: https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02298

Help contact: [e-mail]

Department: https://epsci.ucr.edu/

Job location

Riverside, CA