Employment Opportunities

EAPS invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in the broad field of planetary science at the assistant professor level or higher; position starts on September 1, 2027, or a mutually agreed-upon date thereafter.

We seek outstanding scientists with interest in and potential for innovation and leadership in all areas of planetary science, including both Solar System and exoplanet research, that complements and/or expands the expertise of the MIT planetary science community. Candidates who use any methodology or combination of methodologies, including astronomical and spacecraft-based observations, field work, laboratory experimentation, theory and modeling, are welcome to apply.

We request that applications and other materials, including (a) a curriculum vitae, (b) a research statement, (c) a teaching and mentoring statement, and (d) three letters of recommendation sent by the referees, be submitted through the portal at Academic Jobs Online, Job ID #32450. The teaching and mentoring statement can include topics such as service, outreach, or other means of supporting the educational environment.

To receive full consideration, complete applications must be submitted by October 15, 2026. A Ph.D. in earth and planetary sciences or a closely related field is required by the start of employment.

Questions? Contact Rachel Ward, HR Administrator

Job ID #32935

Expected start date: Between June 1, 2027, and January 31, 2028

The Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship Program in the Department of Earth, Atmospheric & Planetary Sciences (EAPS) supports exceptional early-career scientists with interests in the broad range of disciplines represented in the department. Fellows are expected to pursue independent research, but also encouraged to collaborate with at least one faculty member in the department. Applicants should contact prospective faculty hosts whose primary affiliation is in EAPS. MIT postdoctoral researchers receive mentoring and opportunities for career development throughout the postdoctoral period. 

The program typically appoints three new fellows each year through a competitive process. Appointments are for two years. Each fellow receives an annual stipend of $85,000 and an allowance of $5,000 per year for research and $5,000 relocation expenses. Fellows will be eligible for MIT health benefits. Each selected fellow is appointed to a named fellowship. Named fellowships include the William O. Crosby (1876) Fellowship, the Henry G. Houghton (1927) Fellowship, and the Mario J. and Luisa T. Molina Fellowship. Houghton fellows are invited to contribute to educational activities in the department, at a level to be determined in consultation with the faculty mentor. Crosby fellows give a William O. Crosby Lecture once per year. The Molina Fellowship supports the training of scientists in global change research, who are citizens or residents of developing countries or Latin American countries. All candidates will be considered for the Crosby and Houghton Fellowships, and candidates will have an opportunity in the application to indicate their eligibility for the Molina Fellowship.

REQUIRED: Applicants must have obtained a Ph.D. by the start date, but not more than three years before the start date. Applicants not selected for one of the named fellowships will automatically be considered for open postdoctoral positions in their area of expertise at MIT. Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check.

Application Requirements: A single PDF file containing: (i) a cover letter; (ii) a curriculum vitae that includes a list of publications; and (iii) a two-page plan (including figures but excluding references) of research to be conducted during the fellowship; Three reference letters to be provided separately by referees. Application materials can be submitted at Academic Jobs Online ID #32935.

Applications are due by November 15, 2026

Questions? Contact eapsdpf@mit.edu

Job ID Number: 25885

This position involves complex and diverse administrative and office management duties in support of the Assistant Director of Academic Programs in the Education Office. This office serves approximately 40 faculty, 195 graduate students, and 40 undergraduate students, and is the first point of contact for the Education Office to external constituencies. The position requires problem solving in highly varied and complex situations as well as serving as a high-level individual contributor to multiple projects. Primary responsibilities include the following: responding to telephone and email inquiries; assisting with processing and managing graduate student appointments, grades, degree lists, and thesis submission; scheduling classrooms for the building and coordinating scheduling with other headquarters administrative assistants (AA); maintaining the education databases for student records and admissions; monitoring expenses and processing reimbursements; assists in maintaining the internal pages of the department website; drafting correspondence, and scheduling meetings for the admissions/education committees; event coordinator for the education office, including assisting in the organization and running of educational activities such as DEAPS, IAP, UROP, field trips, admissions open house and orientation; training administrative assistants in Education Office procedures and regularly reviewing procedures with all administrative assistants; working with the faculty and their support staff on the processing of visiting student applications; creating and distributing event materials; and providing general support to the Assistant Director of Academic Programs in other educational activities. Primary contact for the EAPS Undergraduate Council. 

REQUIRED: A minimum of five years of administrative or related experience in student services or a similar position; excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills; strong telephone and email presence; outstanding organizational skills; attention to detail; good time management and project management experience; ability to work both independently and as part of a team; resourcefulness, and self-motivation; service oriented; comfortable working in fast-paced and complex environment; proficiency with MS Office.

Questions? Contact Ann Greaney-Williams

More information about careers at MIT can be found at hr.mit.edu/jobs, including FAQs about the application process, visa sponsorship, and benefits.