RESEARCH SCIENTIST - SR. RESEARCH SCIENTIST - Planetary Scientist - Boulder, CO

Who We Are:

The successful candidate will join the Solar System Modeling Group within the Solar System Science and Exploration Division at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) in Boulder, Colorado. The group conducts research on the origin and evolution of planets, satellites, small bodies, and ring systems, including their collisional and dynamical histories. Research efforts emphasize addressing fundamental science questions through analytical and numerical modeling, informed by data from past, current, and upcoming space missions.

Objectives of this Role:

• Conduct analytical and numerical modeling studies on the role of impacts in the formation, evolution, and astrobiological potential of planetary bodies across the Solar System.
• Investigate the role of geophysical processes (e.g., convection, tectonics) in shaping planetary interiors and surfaces.
• Develop, sustain, and grow an independent, externally funded research program.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Independently develop and implement hypotheses-driven numerical model and data analysis activities.
• Configure, initialize, run, and analyze impact models and geophysical models to test hypotheses.
• Maintain and grow a research program through external funding.
• Effectively collaborate with other researchers and staff across SwRI.
• Present and disseminate research results at professional meetings and conferences.
• Submit high-impact manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals.
• Establish and strengthen presence in scientific community advisory committees and activities.

Requirements:

• Requires a PhD in Planetary Science, Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, Geophysics or related degree field.
• 3 years: Post-Ph.D. experience in the dynamics, numerical simulation, analytics, or data analysis of planetary systems.
• Strong and consistent record of peer reviewed publication.
• Demonstrated success in external research program funding support.