The School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE) at Arizona State University invites applications for the Exploration Postdoctoral Fellowship Program (see http://sese.asu.edu/opportunities). SESE’s core mission is to integrate science and engineering to provide a better understanding of our world and beyond. Research areas within SESE encompass astrophysics, cosmology, Earth science, climate science, planetary science, exploration systems engineering, and science education. The Exploration Fellowship Program aims to provide opportunities for conducting postdoctoral research on cutting-edge topics and to foster inter-disciplinary collaboration.
Applications must include a brief research proposal that has been discussed with prospective faculty sponsors. Potential research topics span the full range of research interests of our faculty (http://sese.asu.edu/focus_areas), including key initiatives in the origin, evolution, and fate of the Universe, planetary bodies, and life; the co-evolution of Earth's surface environment and societies; and lifelong science and engineering education.
The first step in the application process is to contact prospective faculty sponsor(s) to discuss potential research topics.
For inquiries related to Earth and space sciences education, please feel free to contact Prof. Steven Semken at [log in to unmask].
When a topic of mutual interest is identified, the applicant prepares a 5-10 page research proposal outlining the problem and the research plan (including figures; references do not count against page limit; no budget is needed). Application packets include (1) a cover letter identifying (a) research topic, (b) prospective postdoctoral advisors, and (c) a list of 3 references with contact information, (2) CV, (3) 2-3 papers exemplary of the applicant’s research, (4) letters of endorsement from the prospective postdoctoral advisors, and (5) the research proposal. Preference will be given to proposals that fuse research conducted through multiple focus areas within SESE and that will involve new collaborations among our faculty. Please request that your referees submit a letter of recommendation addressed to the Exploration Fellowship Program Committee by January 5, 2011. Letters of recommendation should be emailed to [log in to unmask] and may be submitted independently.
We expect to make 2 awards this year with salary ($50k/yr) and full benefits. Standard awards are 2 year appointments, renewable for a 3rd year contingent on performance and availability of funding. Typically appointments will start between July 1 and September 1, 2011.
Application materials (and any questions) should be submitted by email to [log in to unmask], addressed to the Exploration Fellowship Program Committee. Complete applications are due by December 31, 2010. Letters of recommendation from 3 references must be submitted by January 5, 2011. Evaluation of applications begins January 1, 2011 and decisions will be announced in early February.
ASU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that actively seeks diversity among applicants and promotes a diverse workforce.
