Phd In Astrobiology Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Department: CAS Earth Sciences
Rank: Research Associate
Annual Basis: 9 Month

April 7, 2026; position open until filled

Complete applications must include a one-page letter of intent indicating the desired term of residence, faculty member you would like to collaborate with, and a complete curriculum vitae.

The Department of Earth Sciences is a department within the College of Arts and Sciences that supports significant research activities in a wide range of fields in Earth and Environmental Science. The Department includes approximately 30 faculty (including TTF and NTTF), many of whom have large research grants. Research and graduate education in the Department of Earth Sciences focuses on the following subfields: (a) Geophysics: tectonics, seismology, remote sensing, and fault mechanics, as well as earthquake hazards; (b) Volcanology: geochemistry, physical volcanology, igneous petrology, and volcanic systems modeling; (c) Climate science: glaciology, paleoclimate and glacial modeling, oceanography, and ice physics; (d) Paleontology: vertebrate paleontology, paleoecology, paleobiogeography, and phylogenetics; (e) Surface processes: Geochemical modeling, hydrology, soil and aqueous geochemistry, landslides, sedimentology and stratigraphy, geomorphology, and fluid mechanics; (f) Planetary Geology: space physics, astrobiology, and planetary interiors.

The Department of Earth Sciences invites applications for a one term (three-month) visiting faculty appointment as a Meierjurgen Faculty Fellow during the academic year 2026-2027. The Meierjurgen Fellowship provides a visiting opportunity for distinguished professionals in the field of geology, such as faculty on sabbatical and researchers from other universities and institutes, to collaborate with those in the Department of Earth Sciences. This endowment-funded position provides for salary, travel, and/or living support for one academic term. Requirements are one term in residence (UO is on the quarter system, so this is approximately 11 weeks) and one departmental seminar. Academic terms and their corresponding appointment dates are:
Fall Term: 09/16/2026 - 12/15/2026
Winter Term: 12/16/2026 - 03/15/2027
Spring Term: 03/16/2027 - 06/15/2027
The Department and University house an array of modern instrumentation (e.g. igneous petrology laboratories, stable isotope lab, SEM, CT-scanning facility), and opportunities for geologic field work are only a short drive away. This position will collaborate on research with faculty and graduate students and will have the opportunity to use departmental facilities or work at field sites during the contract period. Candidates with experience serving the needs of diverse populations are strongly desired.

PhD in geology or related field.

Record of academic merit based on research and publications, teaching experience/excellence, service, and/or leadership.
Record of and potential for collaborative ties with faculty and graduate students as demonstrated through activities such as research or teaching collaborations, mentorship, and professional networking opportunities.
Experience serving the needs of diverse populations.

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit our website.

The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please email us or call 541-346-5112.

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