The Planetary Exploration Lab (PEL) is always trying to match enthusiastic people with current and pending research opportunities.
Interested in joining the PEL?
Check out our RESEARCH page for more information, and see below for ways to contribute!
Interested in joining the PEL?
Check out our RESEARCH page for more information, and see below for ways to contribute!
UNDERGRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES
At NAU?
Inquire about both paid and for-credit research opportunities in the PEL. Projects range in scope from sample preparation, to data calibration and basic analyses, to multi-semester independent research projects. |
At a Different Institution?
The Department of Astronomy and Planetary Science hosts a National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program in Astronomy that supports paid summer internships. Interested students should visit the following website (here) and reach out to Mark in the Fall semester to inquire about available projects. |
GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES
Graduate research opportunities in the PEL are rather fluid, depending on a variety of factors.
Students interested in potential research opportunities should read through the Q&A below.
Graduate research opportunities in the PEL are rather fluid, depending on a variety of factors.
Students interested in potential research opportunities should read through the Q&A below.
Are there currently any graduate positions available in the PEL?
We are always recruiting motivated students into the PEL, as grant funding and teaching assistant opportunities are continuously evolving.
Is it okay to contact you regarding graduate opportunities?
Of course! Considering applications are due in December/January, it is best to reach out in the September, October, or November months to receive the latest information on funding opportunities and position availability.
What sort of students are you looking for?
The interdisciplinary nature of planetary science, remote sensing, and landscape evolution means that there are opportunities for students with a wide diversity of different backgrounds, including geology, geography, GIS, environmental sciences, computer science, atmospheric sciences, chemistry, biology, engineering, and many more. More important requirements than your academic background, however, are enthusiasm, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow as a researcher. Have a look at the range of projects listed on our RESEARCH page to see if your interests and skills align with any of these topics.
How would you describe your advising style?
I'd define myself as an "available macro-manager." This means that I don't like to look over your shoulder or care to know about your whereabouts every minute of every day. However, I do like weekly group and individual meetings to make sure that we're on the same page, and I am always available for additional meetings to discuss any issues or problems as quickly as possible.
Where can I learn more about the graduate program at NAU?
Have a look at our PhD program's website (here) or email me directly for more information!
We are always recruiting motivated students into the PEL, as grant funding and teaching assistant opportunities are continuously evolving.
Is it okay to contact you regarding graduate opportunities?
Of course! Considering applications are due in December/January, it is best to reach out in the September, October, or November months to receive the latest information on funding opportunities and position availability.
What sort of students are you looking for?
The interdisciplinary nature of planetary science, remote sensing, and landscape evolution means that there are opportunities for students with a wide diversity of different backgrounds, including geology, geography, GIS, environmental sciences, computer science, atmospheric sciences, chemistry, biology, engineering, and many more. More important requirements than your academic background, however, are enthusiasm, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow as a researcher. Have a look at the range of projects listed on our RESEARCH page to see if your interests and skills align with any of these topics.
How would you describe your advising style?
I'd define myself as an "available macro-manager." This means that I don't like to look over your shoulder or care to know about your whereabouts every minute of every day. However, I do like weekly group and individual meetings to make sure that we're on the same page, and I am always available for additional meetings to discuss any issues or problems as quickly as possible.
Where can I learn more about the graduate program at NAU?
Have a look at our PhD program's website (here) or email me directly for more information!
POSTDOCTORAL OPPORTUNITIES
Like graduate research opportunities, postdoctoral opportunities can appear or disappear rather quickly.
If you're interested in working in the PEL as a postdoctoral researcher, get in touch a few months before the end of your current position so that we can brainstorm about funding options, including grant writing opportunities or fellowship programs.
Like graduate research opportunities, postdoctoral opportunities can appear or disappear rather quickly.
If you're interested in working in the PEL as a postdoctoral researcher, get in touch a few months before the end of your current position so that we can brainstorm about funding options, including grant writing opportunities or fellowship programs.