Tag: PostDoc

18 PhD positions and 6 postdoc positions in Planetary Habitability

A new Collaborative Research Center (CRC) SFB 1759 on “Habitability as a fundamental planetary process: Towards a paradigm shift away from our perception of the uniqueness of Earth” funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) 
is being established at the Freie Universität Berlin, Germany, starting this Autumn on October 1, 2026.

We are currently hiring 18 Doctoral (75% E13 TV-L) and 6 Postdoctoral Researchers (100% E13 TV-L) within the SFB 1759 for the first funding period of the SFB 1759 (10/2026–06/3030). The starting dates are flexible but funding is limited to 30 June 2030. The regular working time for full (100%) employment is between 39.4 hours (for positions in Berlin) / 39.83 hours per week (Dresden and Bochum). Good English language skills (written and oral) are required. 

The participating institutions are equal opportunity employers and are committed to increasing the proportion of women academics. Consequently, we actively encourage applications by women. Female candidates with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered within the framework of the legal possibilities. We also welcome applications from candidates with severe disabilities. Disabled candidates with equivalent qualifications will be preferentially considered, although some restrictions related to accessing laboratory facilities may apply in some projects.

Applications should be written in English and include a cover letter, the names of three (postdoc positions) or two (doctoral positions) referees, CV, copies of degree certificates and transcripts, all combined into a single pdf (max. 10 MB). Positions may have different individual application deadlines, but review of all applications will begin 22 July 2026 and will continue until all positions have been filled.

Full details for each position can be found here. Please indicate which position(s) you are applying for via the reference codes that you can find in the link above and email your application to coord@sfb1759-planetary-habitability.de. Please also consider the more detailed description of the positions including necessary requirements posted on the institutional websites.

Postdoctoral position on survival of archaea in extreme salinity conditions

The METIS laboratory (Sorbonne Université, Paris) and the MCAM laboratory (National Museum of Natural History, Paris) have an opening for a post-doctoral fellowship focused on the lipid adaptation of halophilic archaea and their preservation in salt crystals. The 18 month position will start as soon as it is filled and before December 2026.

Halophilic microorganisms, living in conditions of extreme salinity, could survive for up to several hundred million years in halite (NaCl) crystals formed after salt evaporation. The study of halophilic microorganisms and associated biomolecules is therefore of interest for the search for traces of past and present life on Earth and other planets. The survival of these microorganisms, such as the archaea Halobacterium salinarum considered here as our study model, requires the development of specific adaptive mechanisms, notably involving membrane lipids. However, currently, there is little information on the membrane adaptation of H. salinarum upon inclusion within halite.

The objective of this project will be to develop an innovative cold plasma treatment process for halites to eliminate interfering organic compounds potentially present at the surface of the crystals, and to ensure that the lipids studied are those corresponding solely to H. salinarum cells. This development is a prerequisite for the reliable study of the adaptation mechanisms of the H. salinarum lipidome during the formation of halites. We will then seek to evaluate the role of glycerol and its involvement in the survival of H. salinarum under extreme salinity conditions. This key molecule, produced and released by microalgae present in the same ecosystems as H. salinarum, could help the latter to survive in hypersaline conditions.

To investigate the mechanisms and conditions of glycerol assimilation by H. salinarum during halite formation, we will conduct novel isotopic labeling experiments with 13C-labeled glycerol. Our interdisciplinary project, at the interface of microbiology, geochemistry, and plasma physics, will provide key methodological and mechanistic insights into the preservation of lipid biosignatures in halite.

Required qualifications:

  • PhD in microbiology and/or analytical and organic chemistry,with demonstrated skills.
  • Basic knowledge and interest in both microbiology and organic chemistry.
  • Interest in environmental sciences.
  • Demonstrated record of presenting and publishing research results

Need more details?
Everything you need to know for you application can be found here.

Applications should include a detailed CV and cover letter before July 10th 2026.

Postdoctoral position on asteroid studies at The Open University

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the ICARUS project: Investigating Changes in Asteroid Regolith and Understanding Solar-driven Volatile Release in Near-Sun Asteroids. 

This role focuses on experimental petrology and high-resolution geochemical analysis to investigate how intense solar heating drives gas release and surface evolution in active near-Sun asteroids, with particular emphasis on asteroid [3200] Phaethon. The project combines cyclic heating experiments on meteorites with advanced analytical techniques, including SEM, Raman, near-IR spectroscopy, and impact ionisation mass spectrometry, to generate the essential ground-truth datasets required to interpret in-situ measurements from the DESTINY+ mission.

The successful candidate will lead laboratory-based research, contributing to experimental design, data acquisition, quantitative analysis, and interpretation, collaborating with international partners in Germany and Japan. This is primarily a research role with scope for limited teaching in line with institutional policy.

The successful candidate will be line managed by Dr Martin D. Suttle who serves as PI on the ICARUS project. 

Essential skills:

  • PhD (or submitted PhD thesis) in planetary science, geochemistry, meteoritics, experimental petrology, physics or a closely related field.
  • Strong laboratory-based analytical skills in mass spectrometry complemented by proficiency in at least three of the following techniques: SEM, EMPA, Raman spectroscopy, near-IR spectroscopy, TGA, XRD, and/or TEM. Ideally applied to the study of meteorite or planetary analogue materials.
  • Proven ability to design, execute, and interpret complex laboratory experiments independently.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, including a track record of publishing research in high-impact journals as lead author.
  • Willingness and ability to travel internationally for collaborative work and conferences. 

Need more details?
Everything you need to know for you application can be found here.

Application deadline is on Wednesday June 24th 2026.

Mercury Postdoc position at The Open University

This STFC-funded Research and Innovation Associate (RIA) position for a post-doctoral researcher represents an exciting four year opportunity to join a three-University project at the core of the Mercury Imaging X-ray Spectrometer (MIXS) team for ESA’s BepiColombo Mercury Planetary Orbiter, whose 1-2 years orbital science mission at Mercury begins in March 2027. We anticipate a starting date between 1 June and 1 October 2026 (by mutual agreement) for this role.

MIXS will map and measure ratios and abundances of more than a dozen elements across Mercury’s surface, and in conjunction with other surface-looking instruments is expected to deliver a step-change in our understanding of Mercury’s geological history. 

The successful candidate will be based at the Open University to work with David Rothery and Mahesh Anand, but will do so in close collaboration with colleagues at Space Park Leicester, particularly Emma Bunce (MIXS Principal Investigator), Adrian Martindale (MIXS Instrument Scientist), John Bridges, and two recently-recruited RIAs. There will be opportunities to become involved in laboratory experiments to help to understand the remotely-sensed (principally XRF) properties of Mercury’s surface.

About you
You will hold a PhD in planetary science or a closely related field, with particular expertise in spacecraft data analysis, geochemistry, and/or X-ray fluorescence techniques. A strong publication record, evidence of independent research capability, and experience working within collaborative research environments are essential. Proficiency in ArcPro, Python and a solid grasp of planetary geological processes, especially those relevant to Mercury, will be key to your success in this role.

Essential:

  • PhD in planetary science or a closely related field.
  • Solid grasp of planetary geological processes, especially those relevant to Mercury.
  • The ability to present your research effectively both orally and in scientific writing.
  • The ability to work both independently and as part of a diverse team, and to foster links with other teams.
  • A developing track record of peer-reviewed publications in international journals.
  • Time management and project planning skills.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to partners’ locations.

Need more details?
Everything you need to know for you application can be found here.

Application deadline is 11:59pm on Friday 24th April 2026.

Internal Research Fellow (postdoc) in Planetary Protection at the European Space Agency

The Research Fellow in Planetary Protection will work in close cooperation with other staff of the Independent Safety Office in the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality at ESTEC in Noordwijk (NL).

This fellowship aims to advance the development of a risk-informed decision culture at ESA and application of probabilistic frameworks in the planetary protection domain. The overall goal is to support ESA planetary protection function on its effort to modernise current approaches with the use of new statistical models to assess biological and chemical contamination risks.

The Research Fellow in Planetary Protection primary role is to develop mathematical frameworks to be used for modelling the probability to 1) transfer harmful contamination to solar system bodies for robotic or crewed missions (or a combination of both); 2) transfer harmful contamination from outer space to Earth.

As an internal researcher, the candidate will perform research activities exploring new ways or expanding the scope of existing studies to promote the use of risk-informed decision frameworks, prediction models, AI applied to planetary protection.

About you
You should have recently completed, or be close to completion of a PhD in a related technical or scientific discipline. Preference  will  be  given  to applications submitted by candidates within  five  years of receiving their PhD. In particular for this position, the following is required:

PhD in data or computer science, machine learning, AI, statistics, mathematics, biophysics, bioinformatics.

Need more details?
Everything you need to know for you application can be found here.

Application deadline is April 3rd 2026 at 23:59 CET.

Planetary Sciences Lectureship at Mullard Space Science Laboratory UCL, UK

This post is a permanent lectureship in Planetary Science and will be held within the Planetary Science Group at the Mullard Space Science Laboratory in the Department of Space and Climate Physics (https://www.ucl.ac.uk/mathematical-physical-sciences/mssl/space-research/solar-system/planetary-science).

The successful applicant will be expected to pursue a vigorous internationally competitive original research programme, initially exploiting data from the Rosalind Franklin Mission, but also other planetary environments, such as the Moon and the icy moons of the Outer Planets. They will actively pursue opportunities to lead future space missions and/or space instrument roles at the frontiers of Planetary Science, and aligned with the Group’s strategic science interests.

Applications in the fields of study of planetary surface science and multispectral observations, both insitu and remote, are particularly welcomed, but are not restricted to this area.

The post holder will also contribute to the teaching programme of the Department, and to its planning and organisation, participate in the life of the Department and undertake other tasks that may be assigned by the Head of Department.

About you
The successful candidate will have a PhD in a relevant field, along with a command of the planetary surface science field and/or the use of imaging and spectroscopic instruments to study planetary surfaces and habitability, that shows both breadth and depth. They will have experience in data analysis methods relevant for investigating past or present habitability of planetary environments, and evidence of an active research profile at national and international level, with a growing reputation. It is essential that you have the ability to supervise academic work by PhD and MSc students and the ability to pursue a successful science research programme, demonstrating independent research ideas and a commitment to the scientific method.

Teaching experience at undergraduate/postgraduate university level is desirable but not essential.

Want to apply?
Please check the original post here.

Application deadline is March 29th 2026.

Postdoctoral Research position in Astrochemistry/Planetology

The team of the project ORGAMISS within the ASTRO team of the PIIM laboratory in Marseille (France) is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to investigate the impact of space weathering to detect organic matter in mineral matrices simulating solar system bodies.

This project investigates the origin and chemical evolution of extraterrestrial organic matter in past or present aqueous environments of Solar System bodies. The project will experimentally simulate the fate of organic matter on the surface of bodies (asteroids, Mars) using analogs and meteorites and define biases for the detection of OM in mineral matrices.

The preferred candidate will have a PhD (or close to completion) in astrochemistry, planetary sciences, chemistry or a closely related field, with knowledge and familiarity in spectroscopic techniques (IR, UV, Raman) and experimental works. The candidate should have demonstrated skills for experiments and/or analytics during the PhD or postdoctoral positions.

For more information, click here (PDF file).

The starting date is expected before July 2026.
Please send a CV, a description of research interests, a publication list, and email addresses of 2 referees as a single PDF file to Vassilissa.vinogradoff@univ-amu.fr

Postdoctoral Research position in Archaea Ecology (Bioinformatics)

This is not a repost – it’s another similar position in the same department.

The Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, is looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Rodrigues-Oliveira group. This ERC-funded position offers the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research in a collaborative environment. The position is full-time, starting 1 April 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter), and is funded initially for 1 year.

About the research project
This research project focuses on the Asgard archaea, the closest known prokaryotic relatives of eukaryotes. However, many aspects of their ecology and metabolism remain poorly understood, despite their key evolutionary significance. The position involves focused analyses of proteins and metabolic pathways central to Asgard archaeal ecology, aiming to generate insights relevant to ongoing discussions on eukaryogenesis.

Qualifications

  • A PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, microbiology or related field
  • Proven research experience in comparative genomics and phylogeny
  • Demonstrated teamwork and interpersonal skills, with commitment to collaborative research.
  • Documented experience in scientific writing and publication in international peer-reviewed scientific journals
  • The capacity to prepare and present his/her/their research at scientific conferences.
  • Excellent English skills, both written and oral

Want to apply?
Great! Please send your CV, a motivation letter, and the contact details of three referees to the project leader, Asst. Prof. Thiago Rodrigues de Oliveira (thiago.rodrigues@bio.au.dk). Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled, early applications are encouraged

More information here (PDF file).

Postdoctoral Research position in Archaea Microbiology

The Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Rodrigues-Oliveira group to investigate the ecology and biochemistry of Asgard archaea and their role in the emergence of complex life. This ERC-funded position offers the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research in a collaborative international environment. The position is full-time, starting 1 June 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter), and is initially for two years. As part of the recruitment process, a shortlisting procedure will be applied.

Expected start date and duration of employment

This is a 2–year position from 01/06/2026 or as soon possible.

Application deadline: 16 March 2026

More information and application on the website here.

Job description

This project focuses on the Asgard archaea, which represent the closest prokaryotic relatives of eukaryotes. Yet, due to the scarcity of cultured representatives, functional insights into their biology remain limited and are mostly inferred from genome data. In this context, you will be working on bridging this gap by investigating the biochemical properties of Asgard archaea proteins crucial to the understanding of their ecology and evolution. You will perform:

  • heterologous expression in model organisms
  • protein purification
  • biochemical functional characterizations
  • in vivo assays in genetically tractable archaea

Postdoctoral Research position in (Exo)planetary Climate Modelling

A Postdoctoral Researcher wanted for a 3-year full-time position in (Exo)Planetary Climate Modelling to join the newly established research group of Dr João M. Mendonça at the University of Southampton: https://software-oasis.com/.

The successful candidate will primarily work on the development and enhancement of the OASIS model, contributing to new physical parameterisations, numerical algorithms, and/or performance optimisation. They will also lead the application of the new code developments to open questions in Solar System and Exoplanet research. Applicants with backgrounds in (exo)planetary climate science, atmospheric physics, applied mathematics, or computer science are particulary welcome.

You can find the link to the new postdoc position here: https://jobs.soton.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=3267925WF
The application deadline is 14 January 2025.