Postdoctoral Associate - Earth Environmental Planetary Sciences

Position Summary

The Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences (EEPS) at Rice University invites applications for the Pan Postdoctoral Research Fellowship. Candidates should have independent research interests that intersect with one or more EEPS faculty and contribute positively to the department’s education and outreach efforts. Both domestic and international applicants are welcome, and candidates must have received their PhD within the last three years. The fellowship is funded for two years (subject to satisfactory progress after the first year) and includes an annual stipend of $68,000 with a benefits package, a discretionary research allowance of $5,000, and an allowance for relocation expenses. Applicants are required to develop a research proposal that explores new directions beyond their PhD work and demonstrates independence, originality, and potential for collaboration with EEPS faculty.

Essential Functions

• Independently develop a valid research project with minor input from a faculty advisor and actively pursue the project within the allotted timeframe.
• Document, analyze, and maintain research data.
• Assist with proposal development to obtain research funding.
• Collaboratively mentor, oversee, and/or train junior research team members.
• Publish and present research findings.
• Support project management and collaboration across institutions or disciplines.
• Design and implement research protocols; adapt new procedures, methods, or instrumentation as needed.
• Provide academic services to the department (e.g., participate in seminars, give guest lectures).
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in geosciences, geophysics, or a related field.

Required Skills

• Knowledge of current geoscience practice and active research.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including oral presentation abilities.
• Strong organization and time‑management skills.
• Familiarity with modern research methods, data collection, and analysis techniques.
• Understanding of the principles and techniques of the relevant discipline.
• Ability to write scholarly papers for submission to peer‑reviewed journals.
• Ability to work collaboratively.
• Ability to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision.

Benefits and Compensation

The fellowship provides an annual stipend of $68,000, a comprehensive benefits package, a discretionary research allowance of $5,000 per year, and support for relocation expenses. The position is funded by grant, soft, and/or restricted funds, and continued employment depends on the renewal of funding.

Workplace Requirements

This is an on‑campus, exclusively in‑person position located in Houston, Texas. Work arrangements may be subject to change per Rice policy 440. The role is classified as exempt (salaried) and is not eligible for overtime.