Postdoctoral Associate - Earth Environmental Planetary Sciences

Position Summary

The Rice Astromaterials Research and Exploration Laboratory (RARE Lab) in the Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences is looking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of cosmochemistry and geochronology. The RARE Lab is composed of a metal-free clean lab (under construction), a microscopy lab (JEOL IT200-LA SEM and Keyence VHX-1 digital microscope), a mass spectrometry lab (LA-MC-ICP-MS...),

and an astromaterials storage room (under construction).

The NASA-funded project aims to develop next-generation radiometric dating methods by LA-MC-ICP-MS for lunar samples. This project uses a state-of-the-art MC-ICP-MS connected with a laser ablation system to develop in situ radiometric dating techniques for NASA’s future lunar returned samples. The RARE lab will be fully equipped with multiple microscopic imaging and analytical systems (by summer 2026) to support research development.

The candidate will work with a dedicated lab manager and a PhD student to accomplish this project. We are a dynamic research group with multidisciplinary expertise and backgrounds in geochronology, analytical chemistry, astrophysics, petrology, meteoritics, lunar science, geology, and data analysis. Collaborative opportunities are always available, and participation is highly encouraged.

We seek a highly motivated individual with a strong background in geochronology, geochemistry, and ICP-MS instrumentation to join the RARE Lab. The primary responsibilities are to develop analytical techniques for laser probe-based radiometric dating, search for and create reference materials, and develop data reduction schemes.

The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal on an annual basis for up to a total of three years, contingent upon satisfactory performance reviews. The proposed start date is May 1, 2026 (negotiable).

• $60,000 plus benefits (retirement benefits, healthcare and paid time-off)
• Opportunities to work on the coolest rocks (both Apollo samples and NASA's future lunar returned samples)
• Opportunities to develop the cutting‑edge isotope analytical techniques
• Relocation reimbursement up to $1,500 with itemized receipts required
• Funds for attending at least one conference per year
• An office desktop with necessary software
• Mentorship and leadership training to prepare as an independent researcher
• Collaborative and interdisciplinary research opportunities at Rice University and in Greater Houston

To apply, please submit a letter of interest, your CV, and the names and contact information for three references before January 4, 2026. Evaluation of applications will start after the date. For questions, please contact Dr. Bidong Zhang (bidong).

This is an in‑person position at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Additionally, this position is funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

• Ph.D. in geology, geochemistry, planetary science, chemistry or related field

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as oral presentation skills
• Organization and time management skills
• Knowledge of geo‑/cosmochemical research methods, data collection, and analyses
• Ability to write scholarly papers to publish them in journals
• Able to work in a collaborative environment
• Able to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision and direction

• Preference will be given to those who have experience in isotope‑ratio mass spectrometry and/or extraterrestrial material research

• Develop radiometric dating techniques using LA-MC-ICP-MS
• Compile and reduce data
• Publish results in peer‑reviewed journals
• Mentor, oversee, and/or train junior research team members
• Present findings at conferences
• Support lab management and collaboration across institutions or disciplines
• Perform other duties as assigned

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact Rice University's Disability Resource Center at 713‑348‑5841 or adarice for support.

If you have any questions, please email us nk you for your interest in employment with Rice University.