Rice University
Postdoctoral Associate - Earth Environmental Planetary Sciences
Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States, 77246
Postdoctoral Associate – Earth Environmental Planetary Sciences
Rice University is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in cosmochemistry and geochronology for the Rice Astromaterials Research and Exploration Laboratory (RARE Lab) in the Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences.
Position Summary The RARE Lab is developing next‑generation radiometric dating methods using LA‑MC‑ICP‑MS for lunar samples. This NASA‑funded project aims to create in‑situ radiometric dating techniques for future lunar returned samples and to support research with advanced microscopy and mass‑spectrometry instrumentation.
Key Responsibilities
Develop analytical techniques for laser probe‑based radiometric dating.
Search for and create reference materials and data‑reduction schemes.
Compile and reduce data for publication.
Publish results in peer‑reviewed journals and present findings at conferences.
Mentor and train junior research team members.
Support laboratory management and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in geology, geochemistry, planetary science, chemistry, or related field.
Strong background in geochronology, geochemistry, and ICP‑MS instrumentation.
Excellent verbal and written communication, organizational, and time‑management skills.
Ability to produce scholarly papers and work independently and collaboratively.
Experience in isotope‑ratio mass spectrometry and/or extraterrestrial material research preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
$60,000 plus benefits (retirement, healthcare, paid time‑off).
Relocation reimbursement up to $1,500 with itemized receipts.
Conference travel support.
Office desktop and necessary software.
Mentorship and leadership training.
Application Information Submit a letter of interest, CV, and contact information for three references by January 4, 2026. Applications are reviewed after the deadline. Contact Dr. Bidong Zhang (bidong@rice.edu) with questions.
Workplace Requirements This is an in‑person position at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Continued employment depends on grant funding renewal.
Equal Opportunity Statement Rice University is an equal employment opportunity employer and welcomes diversity. The university provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. For accommodation inquiries contact the Rice University Disability Resource Center at 713-348-5841 or adarice@rice.edu.
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Position Summary The RARE Lab is developing next‑generation radiometric dating methods using LA‑MC‑ICP‑MS for lunar samples. This NASA‑funded project aims to create in‑situ radiometric dating techniques for future lunar returned samples and to support research with advanced microscopy and mass‑spectrometry instrumentation.
Key Responsibilities
Develop analytical techniques for laser probe‑based radiometric dating.
Search for and create reference materials and data‑reduction schemes.
Compile and reduce data for publication.
Publish results in peer‑reviewed journals and present findings at conferences.
Mentor and train junior research team members.
Support laboratory management and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in geology, geochemistry, planetary science, chemistry, or related field.
Strong background in geochronology, geochemistry, and ICP‑MS instrumentation.
Excellent verbal and written communication, organizational, and time‑management skills.
Ability to produce scholarly papers and work independently and collaboratively.
Experience in isotope‑ratio mass spectrometry and/or extraterrestrial material research preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
$60,000 plus benefits (retirement, healthcare, paid time‑off).
Relocation reimbursement up to $1,500 with itemized receipts.
Conference travel support.
Office desktop and necessary software.
Mentorship and leadership training.
Application Information Submit a letter of interest, CV, and contact information for three references by January 4, 2026. Applications are reviewed after the deadline. Contact Dr. Bidong Zhang (bidong@rice.edu) with questions.
Workplace Requirements This is an in‑person position at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Continued employment depends on grant funding renewal.
Equal Opportunity Statement Rice University is an equal employment opportunity employer and welcomes diversity. The university provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. For accommodation inquiries contact the Rice University Disability Resource Center at 713-348-5841 or adarice@rice.edu.
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