Postdoctoral Scholar, Interplanetary Initiative SHPRS Fellowship

Postdoctoral Scholar, Interplanetary Initiative SHPRS Fellowship

Description

The Interplanetary Initiative Fellowship is an annual program that supports bold, interdisciplinary projects and thinkers to further our positive space future. Arizona State University’s Interplanetary Initiative (II), co-founded by President Michael Crow, and Lindy Elkins-Tanton, is a pioneer for integrated research and learning, to investigate, communicate, and define our human space future.  The Fellowship is at the heart of furthering our mission by connecting disciplines and sectors, on Earth and beyond.

Our 2023 Fellowship is a 5-month program offered spring semester: January 9 - May 26, 2023, and is a salaried + benefits opportunity offering $32,000 ($2,454.55 biweekly + $5,000 moving stipend + benefits).

This year, the Interplanetary Initiative (II) is partnering with the ASU School of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies (SPHRS) to support a project that addresses the human, social and cultural implications of exploring outer space, such as:

• The role and influence of religion and spirituality on space exploration: past, present and future  The impact of space exploration on religious and spiritual beliefs and practices on Earth Cross-cultural human origin stories and their relation to our future in space How cultural ideas infuse science and technology and the impact of those ideas on the evolution of humans into space

We are seeking individual projects that strive to forge new areas of scholarship, provide a blueprint for a commonality of purpose that currently does not exist in our terrestrial endeavors, and build the future of humans in space for a bolder and better society.  Projects should offer contributions to space exploration; have a strong connection with positive human futures; and provide innovative, significant, and tangible outcomes.

If appropriate and possible, we will support your project by facilitating interactions with industry experts, and key ASU faculty and external partners.  Depending upon the focus of your proposed project, we may offer speaking opportunities and opportunities to conduct workshops.  Fellowships at the Interplanetary Initiative frequently include the following privileges: a designated desk or office space; access to basic office supplies; use of printers and other shared office equipment; an ASU sun card to access the office, university library, and other amenities; a designated staff contact (this does not include any administrative support); and if applicable access to II’s or other labs.

As a fellow, you are expected to attend major II and SHPRS meetings and events and partake in informal discussions with faculty and/or grad students.  If appropriate, you are encouraged to give seminars, or be a guest lecturer in classes of interest.  Fellows will be required to reside in or around campus, and to work in the office at least two days per week, for two weeks each month.  You will provide biweekly updates of your work and progress to II and SHPRS leadership, sharing ideas and challenges, while receiving constructive input and feedback.  We expect you to have your own laptop, equipment, IT accessories, cell phone, etc., and to complete any applicable training requirements.

The Initiative is willing to sponsor a J-1 exchange visitor visa.

Required Qualifications

We are looking for individuals in all relevant disciplines, who have earned a doctorate in their field by time of appointment.

Application Instructions

The following are required for the application submission:

1. CV References: (3) contact information only. Detailed project description/proposal:  This should be no more than 3 pages and should include:
   • Description of your proposed research project: Include purpose, audience, methods, and tangible outcomes. Timetable and Deliverables: Estimate time periods for each phase of the research proposed, and corresponding deliverables, for the full time period. Budget and Justification: In special circumstances, modest research funds are available beyond the stipend. If needed, please add B&J to your project proposal.
   Art or Research Portfolio: If you are in a field producing portfolios, we welcome you to include one in your submission.  However, if you are not, a portfolio is not required. Assessment criteria:
   • Alignment with the mission of the Interplanetary Initiative Proposal quality: purpose, scope, impact, feasibility, budget Potential for project to create new collaborative networks Potential for project to increase diversity and bring new audiences to the space sector

Application Deadline:  We will begin reviewing applications November 29 2022 and will continue to review incoming applications on a weekly basis until the fellowship is filled

AA/EOE