Hi MSA folks, The Rice Astromaterials Research and Exploration Laboratory (RARE Lab) in the Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences is looking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of cosmochemistry and geochronology. The RARE Lab is composed of a metal-free clean lab (under construction), a microscopy lab (JEOL IT200-LA SEM and Keyence VHX-1 digital microscope), a mass spectrometry lab (LA-MC-ICP-MS with a mass prefilter and a collision reaction cell) (under construction), and an astromaterials storage room (under construction). The NASA-funded project aims to develop next-generation radiometric dating methods by LA-MC-ICP-MS for lunar samples. This project aims to use a state-of-the-art MC-ICP-MS (with a mass prefilter and a collision reaction cell) connected with a laser ablation system to develop in situ radiometric dating techniques for NASA’s future lunar returned samples. The RARE lab will be fully equipped with multiple microscopic imaging and analytical systems (by the summer of 2026) to support research development. The candidate will work with a dedicated lab manager and a PhD student to accomplish this project. We are a dynamic research group with multidisciplinary expertise and backgrounds in geochronology, analytical chemistry, astrophysics, petrology, meteoritics, lunar science, geology, and data analysis. Collaborative opportunities are always available, and participation is highly encouraged. We seek a highly motivated individual with a strong background in geochronology, geochemistry, and ICP-MS instrumentation to join the RARE Lab. The primary responsibilities are to develop analytical techniques for laser probe-based radiometric dating, search for and create reference materials, and develop data reduction schemes. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal on an annual basis for up to a total of three years, contingent upon satisfactory performance reviews. The proposed start date is May 1, 2026 (negotiable). Further details — including an application link — are available here: https://emdz.fa.us2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_2001/job/5252 Postdoctoral Associate - Earth Environmental Planetary Sciences us2.oraclecloud.com Feel free to contact Dr. Bidong Zhang (bidong@rice.edu <mailto:bidong@rice.edu>) with questions about the position. _____________________ Kim A. Cone Postdoctoral Associate Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences • Rice University Department–MS 126 • 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005 Cell 703-855-1502 • kcone@rice.edu <mailto:kcone@rice.edu>