Curtin University’s School of Earth and Planetary Sciences and the John de Laeter Centre (JdLC) are seeking curious, motivated, science-driven researchers to join a new ARC-funded research program focused on sample-return materials from three of the most scientifically important asteroids in the Solar System: Bennu (NASA OSIRIS-REx), Ryugu (JAXA Hayabusa2), and Itokawa (JAXA Hayabusa1).
This project provides an exceptional opportunity to work closely with NASA, JAXA, and international collaborators on cutting-edge planetary materials—samples that are rewriting what we know about early Solar System processes, parent body evolution, and volatile history. The successful applicant will join a vibrant planetary science group in the Space Science and Technology Centre (SSTC) at Curtin and have hands-on access to one of the largest and most advanced instrument suites in Australia, including microstructural, geochemical, and geochronology facilities housed within the JdLC. We are looking for people who are genuinely passionate about discovery, excited by meticulous analytical work, and interested in building a long-term academic career in planetary science.
Ideal Candidate
Essential Criteria
- A Masters degree (MSc, MPhil) and/or a research-focused Bachelor qualification (e.g., 1st class or 2A Honours in Australia; MSci in the UK) in geosciences or planetary sciences.
- Experience in analytical and sample-characterisation techniques in one or more of the following: microstructure, petrology, geochemistry, or geochronology.
- Self-motivated and able to work independently while managing research progress.
- Evidence of communicating research findings in an academic setting.
- Strong communication, presentation, and writing skills.
Highly Desirable Criteria
- Evidence of publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals (relative to opportunity).
- A background in planetary science.
- Experience handling or analysing astromaterials (meteorites, returned samples, cosmic dust, etc.).
This opportunity is available to Domestic and International applicants and requires Full time enrolment on Campus in a Doctor of Philosophy.
The successful candidate will be provided with an internship opportunity, to support the research project.
Scholarship
One scholarship is available and is funded by Curtin University to support a new Australian Research Council Discovery Project “Unlocking Solar System Secrets from Asteroid Sample Return Missions“
The successful applicant will be awarded a Scholarship comprising a stipend (living allowance) of AU$40,000 per anum for three years, which includes a standard base rate of AU$37,500 per anum plus a AU$2,500 per anum top-up by the Space Science and Technology Centre.
International candidates will receive a Tuition Fee Offset scholarship from the School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, which covers 100% tuition fees. Project costs will be covered by funds from Australian Research Council Discovery.
Enquiries
For enquires please contact Associate Professor Nick Timms at n.timms@curtin.edu.au
To apply please submit a formal Expression of Interest to A/Prof Nick Timms
Applications close: 15 March 2026