New

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Lunar & Planetary Sciences

University of Arizona

life insurance, sick time

United States, Arizona, Tucson

Oct 02, 2026

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Lunar & Planetary Sciences
Posting Number	req27228
Department	Lunar and Planetary Laboratory
Department Website Link	https://lpl.arizona.edu/
Location	Tucson Campus
Address	Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights	The Lunar & Planetary Laboratory at the University of Arizona has an opening for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of planetary atmospheres. The postdoctoral researcher will carry out research into the upper atmospheres of Uranus, Saturn, and Titan. The Lunar & Planetary Laboratory (LPL) is a world leader in space science, technology, and exploration, dedicated to advancing the fundamental understanding of the origin and evolution of the Sun, planetary bodies in our solar system, and planetary systems beyond. LPL achieves excellence through cutting-edge research and teaching while mentoring the next generation of planetary scientists. As a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary community, LPL fosters an environment that advances science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research, education, and public engagement, where everyone can thrive. Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities	Analyze and interpret observations that constrain the composition, energy deposition, dynamics, and seasonal change in the upper atmospheres of Uranus, Saturn, and Titan. Participate in remote and in-person team meetings, present results at conferences, and prepare original scientific manuscripts.
Minimum Qualifications	Ph.D. in Planetary Sciences or a related field upon hire.
Preferred Qualifications	Experience in statistical data analysis and radiative transfer in planetary atmospheres.
FLSA	Exempt
Full Time/Part Time	Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week	40
Job FTE	1.0
Work Calendar	Fiscal
Job Category	Research
Benefits Eligible	Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay	NIH Salary Guidelines, Depends on Experience
Compensation Type	salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Type of criminal background check required:	Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies	1
Target Hire Date	3/29/2027
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates	Tommi Koskinen, Ph.D. Associate Professor tommik@arizona.edu
Open Date	10/1/2026
Open Until Filled	Yes
Documents Needed to Apply	Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and One Additional Document
Special Instructions to Applicant	Please submit the following with your application: CV Cover Letter Statement of Research Interest
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