Joining the PSI Research Community

The Planetary Science Institute (PSI) welcomes applications from scientists who are interested in being active members of and contributing to our community as Associate Research Scientists, Research Scientists and Senior Scientists. PSI is a growing, non-profit research and educational organization founded in 1972. We are involved in numerous NASA missions, the study of Mars, asteroids, comets, interplanetary dust, the origin of the solar system, planet formation about other stars, dynamics, impact physics, and the rise of life. PSI scientists conduct field work in North America, Australia and Africa. We are also actively involved in science education and public outreach through school programs, childrens books, popular science books and art.

PSI is headquartered in Tucson, AZ. Our scientists are distributed in 16 states, the UK, France, Switzerland, Russia and Australia with affiliates in Japan and China.

Qualifications:

Candidates are expected to develop their own independent, externally funded research program. A Ph.D. is generally required at the time of appointment. The level of appointment will depend upon background and experience. Associate Research Scientists are usually newer Ph.D.s in the process of establishing funding. PSI Mentors are provided to assist them in establishing collaborations, identify programs for proposing, and generally act as a resource. Associate Research Scientist positions are one year, renewable. Research Scientists have a demonstrated record of conducting research as a Principal Investigator, and Senior Scientists couple this with more than ten years of experience post-Ph.D.

Application:

The following must be submitted by all applicants

• Cover letter that includes a brief statement of your interest in PSI and whether you plan to locate at the Tucson office or elsewhere.
• Current curriculum vitae (including publication list and current and pending grants, abbreviated as appropriate).
• 1-2 page statement of research interests, goals and plans. This should also include your thoughts about being a contributing member of our community (e.g., through collaborations, expanding institutional expertise in new directions, participating in ongoing programs either in research or E/PO).
• Full contact information (email, address) for a minimum of 3 references.

Please submit all application materials electronically in PDF format to: hr [at] psi [dot] edu

Review:

Complete applications are reviewed by the PSI science staff during our monthly staff meetings. The Planetary Science Institute is an equal opportunity employer.

Planetary Science Institute
1700 E. Ft. Lowell Rd., Suite 106
Tucson, AZ 85719
Phone: 520-622-6300
Fax: 520-622-8060