Planetary astronomy is a growing field attracting many young creative scientists. By supporting postdoctoral researchers, we hope to enhance and accelerate scientific progress, including the discovery of exoplanets, the characterization of exoplanets in habitable zones, and the understanding of our solar system’s formation and evolution.

We hope to create a community among these talented fellows, enabling them to exchange and elevate ideas, gain access to other senior leaders in the field, and advance their careers.

Applicants can come from any academic institution or research lab, both nationally and internationally. Applicants are not required to have US citizenship; however, all visa and work permit paperwork is the responsibility of the fellow and host institution. Applicants must have received a doctoral degree in astronomy, physics, earth and planetary sciences, chemistry, mathematics, engineering, or a related discipline. Doctoral degrees must be awarded after August 31, 2009 and before August 31, 2019.

The Heising-Simons Foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Thus, we particularly welcome applications from individuals who belong to groups that have been historically underrepresented in planetary sciences and astronomy such as women, persons with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, gender and sexual minorities, and others who may contribute to diversification of the field.

An online application form must be completed if you wish to be considered for the fellowship. Guidelines and the online application form can be found here.

The fellowship supports research that broadly fits within the field of planetary astronomy, which also includes general solar system formation and evolution, and planetary atmospheres.

Completed applications are reviewed by the host institutions, expert review panel, and by the Foundation’s Science program staff. Recipients of the fellowship will be notified in February. The corresponding department chair and faculty sponsor for each fellow are also personally notified.

The Foundation anticipates awarding six to eight fellowships this year, based on the quality of submissions.

Yes, the Foundation’s Science program funds general astronomy to enhance and accelerate new scientific discoveries that illuminate basic understanding of the universe and its celestial objects and processes. This includes grants that support the development of instruments that enhance research.