Prospective graduate students and postdoctoral scholars interested in planetary surface processes are invited to apply to join the group of Dr. Mathieu Lapotre in the Department of Geological Sciences at Stanford, for a start date in the fall of 2019. The research group will focus on (1) utilizing the diverse planetary bodies of the Solar System as full scale experiments to develop and test our quantitative understanding of surface geological processes, and (2) deciphering the hydrologic and climate histories of planets (including Earth) through the quantitative lens of surface geological processes.

Prospective graduate students should demonstrate strong quantitative skills and motivation to apply concepts of geomorphology, sedimentology, and/or spectroscopy to the study of planetary surfaces and rocks. The next application deadline to the department’s graduate program is January 8, 2019.

Prospective postdoctoral scholars should demonstrate expertise in any field that is relevant to the study of planetary surface processes. Prior knowledge of concepts of planetary geology, geomorphology, or spectroscopy is an advantage but is not required. Candidates with expertise in techniques that are not traditionally utilized in planetary geology but have the potential to bring new light to our understanding of the Solar System (e.g., machine learning, etc.) are strongly encouraged to apply. Funds are currently available for one three-year postdoctoral appointment, but all interested candidates should contact Dr. Lapotre to discuss other potential funding avenues.

All prospective applicants with questions about these opportunities are invited to contact Dr. Lapotre at [email protected].