Research Associate Full-time

Research Associate

The University of Texas at Austin Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) seeks to hire a Research Staff member in the broadly defined areas of Earth and planetary interiors. The emphases of the research areas include experimental mineral physics, physics and chemistry of planetary interiors, and high-pressure earth materials science. We seek a colleague who creatively uses experimental approaches to address fundamental problems in understanding physical and chemical properties of Earth's deep interior or interiors of other planetary bodies. We are particularly interested in candidates who have an expertise in the application and development of laser and X-ray spectroscopies coupled with high-pressure devices and/or other innovative lab-based techniques. We are particularly interested in candidates with the potential to build bridges between existing areas of research strength and collaborate with scientists across various programs. Successful applicant will be expected to contribute to a research community at the University of Texas at Austin through the development of an externally-funded research program, and through engagement with colleagues, postdoctoral scholars, and students. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Earth Science or a related field.

The Department is part of the Jackson School of Geosciences, which houses top research programs across all areas of the Earth and Planetary Sciences. The Department is also closely allied with the Institute of Geophysics for solid Earth research, the Center for Planetary Systems Habitability for planetary science research, and Texas Materials Institute for material science research.

Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests and a plan for applying external grants (up to four pages), up to three recent peer-reviewed publications, and the names and contact information of three qualified persons who can provide the search committee a reference letter upon request. For full consideration, applications should be submitted by January 1st, 2025. You can view and apply for the position on the University's job page. For any further questions, please contact the search committee chair: Jung-Fu Lin (e-mail: afu@jsg.utexas.edu).

To contribute to a research community at the University of Texas at Austin through the development of an externally-funded research program, and through engagement with colleagues, postdoctoral scholars, and students.

Responsibilities:

• Develop new lines of research, undertake independent research projects, and analyze research data and write research results for publication in peer reviewed journals.
• Apply for external funding, establish externally-funded research projects, write reports to sponsoring agencies, and present research at scientific meetings and seminars.
• Supervise laboratory personnel, maintain and operate mineral physics laboratory equipment, and involve in the development of laboratory techniques.
• Collaborate with university personnel on research projects, train users and collaborators on operation of laboratory instruments and data analysis.

Required Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Earth Science or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

Expertise in the application and development of laser and X-ray spectroscopies coupled with high-pressure devices and/or other innovative lab-based techniques. Strong verbal and written communication skills in science. Strong creativity and problem-solving skills in laboratory experiments.

Salary Range: $90,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions:

• Use of manual dexterity.
• Lifting and moving.
• May work around standard office conditions.
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.

Required Materials:

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest