Multiple Postdoctoral Positions in Planetary Science
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
As part of its continuing program of planned growth, the Planetary Geosciences Institute in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is pleased to announce the initiation of its Planetary Geology Postdoctoral Scholars Program (PGPSP). As part of this new initiative, the Institute seeks multiple Ph.D.-level scientists or engineers with expertise in the following:
- Surface Geology. We seek to fill two or more positions in the area of planetary surface geology working with Professors Hap McSween and Jeff Moersch. Several research projects are available, including work utilizing data from the Mars Odyssey THEMIS experiment and the Mars Exploration Rovers, as well as terrestrial analog field work. The successful candidate will also be strongly encouraged to contribute new ideas for research projects in collaboration with members of the Institute. Experience with remote sensing is desired; other areas of potential interest include planetary volcanology, sedimentology, and geomorphology. Applicants should submit electronically a resume, a statement of research experience and future interests, and the names/contacts of two references to both mcsween@utk.edu and jmoersch@utk.edu.
- Wind Tunnel Experiments. We seek a scientist or engineer with expertise in wind tunnel operations, experiments, and data analysis. The 2-year position, based in Knoxville, will entail periodic travel to the NASA Ames Planetary Aeolian Laboratory in Mountain View, CA, to conduct experiments with the Mars Wind Tunnel and the Venus/Titan Wind Tunnel. The successful candidate will help design and conduct wind tunnel experiments to provide input into numerical models. S/he will be expected to take a pro-active stance towards the research and encouraged to provide leadership for its publication and subsequent work. Informal inquiries are welcome at 650-810-0212. Applicants should submit electronically a resume, a statement of research experience and future interests, and the names/contacts of two references to Professor Devon Burr at dburr1@utk.edu.
- Fluvial Geomorphology. We wish to hire a scientist with expertise in fluvial geomorphology. The 2-year position will involve mapping, characterizing, analysis, and inter-comparison of fluvial features on Earth, Mars, and Titan. The work will require using ArcGIS for fluvial network morphometry, and entail co-analysis of a variety of datasets, including visible, spectral and radar images. Experience with flume experiments would be a plus. The successful candidate will be expected to take a pro-active stance towards the research and encouraged to provide leadership regarding its publication and subsequent work. Informal inquiries are welcome at 650-810-0212. Applicants should submit electronically a resume, a statement of research experience and future interests, and the names/contacts of two references to Professor Devon Burr at dburr1@utk.edu.
- Petrology/Geochemistry. We desire to fill a research position with emphasis on petrology and geochemistry of planetary materials - Lunar, Martian, and other meteorite samples. Candidates should have: 1) Abilities in acquisition/modeling of major- and trace-element data, including isotopes; 2) Lab experience in radiogenic isotope chemistry and mass spectroscopy; and 3) Knowledge of planetary sample research; the last not necessary, but certainly beneficial. Applicants should submit electronically a resume, a statement of research experience and future interests, and the names/contacts of three referees to Prof. Larry Taylor at lataylor@utk.edu.
Review of all applications commences immediately. The successful candidates will begin employment in August 2008 or as soon as practicable after selection. UTK is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution in the provision of its education and employment programs and services.