Postdoctoral Position in Planetary Science – CNRS France

About the Position

The Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Position in Planetary Science and Geoastronomy within the Institut des Sciences de la Terre d’Orléans (ISTO), France. This position forms part of the prestigious ERC GEOASTRONOMY Project, led by Prof. Fabrice Gaillard in collaboration with partners in Munich and Bayreuth.

This interdisciplinary project explores atmosphere–lithosphere interactions and the behaviour of volatile elements in exoplanetary systems under extreme pressure–temperature–composition conditions. The successful candidate will conduct high-pressure and high-temperature experiments, analyse multicomponent fluid systems, and perform computational modelling using the DEW (Deep Earth Water) code.

The project offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with world-class experts in geosciences, astronomy, and environmental science, contributing to cutting-edge planetary and exoplanetary research under the Horizon Europe framework.

Position Details

Position: Researcher in Geoastronomy
Institution: CNRS – National Center for Scientific Research
Department: Institut des Sciences de la Terre d’Orléans (ISTO)
Research Field: Geosciences, Astronomy, Environmental Science
Location: Orléans, France
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Temporary (up to 2 years)
Start Date (Anticipated): 5 January 2026
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary Range: As per CNRS regulations
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Experimental petrology and volatile element behaviour
Magma and fluid interactions under high-pressure conditions
Modelling of H₂-rich planetary environments
Thermodynamics of atmosphere–lithosphere systems
Exoplanetary geochemistry and seismology

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in Experimental Petrology, Geosciences, or related field
Proven experience with piston-cylinder presses and high-pressure experiments
Knowledge of volatile elements and magmatic systems
Strong analytical, computational, and writing skills
Ability to work independently and within a research team

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in modelling multicomponent fluids using DEW or similar codes
Background in planetary or astrochemical modelling
Publications in international peer-reviewed journals

Key Responsibilities

Conduct and interpret high-pressure and high-temperature experimental research
Perform computational modelling of volatile systems in exoplanetary environments
Collaborate with international ERC partners in Munich and Bayreuth
Present results at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals
Contribute to interdisciplinary research within ISTO and the GEOASTRONOMY network