The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Rutgers University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate position to collaborate with Professor Yoshinori Miyazaki. We seek highly motivated and creative candidates interested in understanding the origin and evolution of habitable environments on terrestrial planets through theoretical, computational, and interdisciplinary approaches. Our research approaches this question from the broader perspective of planetary formation, integrating geodynamical and geochemical models to investigate the evolution of terrestrial planets from accretion and differentiation to the emergence of habitable environments, with applications to both the Solar System and rocky exoplanets.
The successful candidate will develop theoretical and numerical models that connect the physical and chemical evolution of planetary interiors with atmospheric and surface evolution, providing a framework for understanding the emergence and long-term maintenance of habitable conditions on terrestrial planets. The postdoctoral associate will be encouraged to pursue independent research while contributing to ongoing projects (e.g., magma ocean solidification and the long-term coupled evolution of planetary interiors and atmospheres). Candidates interested in extending these models to interpret observations of terrestrial exoplanets, or in developing new approaches that bridge planetary science, geodynamics, geochemistry, and astronomy, are also encouraged to apply.
The successful applicant should have:
- A Ph.D. in Earth and planetary sciences, geophysics, astrophysics, applied mathematics, or a closely related field by the start date of the appointment.
- Experience in numerical modeling related to one or more of the following areas: computational astrophysics, planetary formation, mantle convection, geochemical cycles, or the evolution of planetary atmospheres and surface environments
- Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, C/C++, or Fortran) and familiarity with high-performance computing, and
- Excellent organizational and written and oral communication skills.
Rutgers University offers a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment with internationally recognized strengths in planetary science, Earth science, computational modeling, and astronomy. The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences is located on the New Brunswick campus and provides outstanding opportunities for collaboration across the School of Arts and Sciences and with external research institutions.
Excellence in research, with experience relevant to the areas listed above, will be the primary criterion for consideration. The position offers flexibility for pursuing original research directions aligned with the group’s broad goal of understanding the processes that govern planetary evolution and habitability. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding. The anticipated start date will be determined in consultation with the successful candidate. Questions may be directed to
[email protected].
