Scientific Staff

LPI's science team pursues innovative research, supports NASA programs, provides a connection to the university scientific community, and contributes scientific knowledge and expertise to all of the Institute's programs and activities.

Science Positions Available

Staff Scientists

Dr. Walter S. Kiefer

Director
Gravity modeling and numerical simulations to constrain the internal structure and tectonic, volcanic, and thermal evolution of Mars, Venus, differentiated asteroids, and the Moon.
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Dr. J. Brian Balta

Staff Scientist
Using experiments, modeling, and analyses of planetary samples to understand the generation of igneous rocks throughout the solar system.
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Dr. Cyrena A. Goodrich

Senior Staff Scientist
Studies the mineralogy, petrology and geochemistry of meteorites derived from asteroids and uses the data to understand early solar system processes such as accretion and differentiation of planetesimals.
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Dr. David A. Kring

Principal Scientist
Extraterrestrial sample analysis and terrestrial field work on fundamental geological processes such as impact cratering, and their implications for the origin and evolution of life.
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Dr. Prajkta Mane

Staff Scientist
Studies chemical, isotopic, and microstructural composition of various astromaterials to understand the origin and evolution of our solar system.View Profile

Dr. Patrick J. McGovern

Senior Staff Scientist
Geophysical analysis of volcanic/tectonic features and crustal/lithospheric structures of the terrestrial planets and moons.
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Dr. Robert “Willie” Nicklas

Staff Scientist
Investigates the origin and formation of planetary materials through elemental and isotopic analysis of meteorites, with a focus on primitive achondrites and early solar system processes.
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Dr. Laura E. Rodriguez

Staff Scientist
Studies the origins of life, abiotic organic chemistry, and chemometrics to understand how geochemical environments drive the chemical evolution of organic materials.
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Dr. Paul M. Schenk

Senior Staff Scientist
Geologic and topographic mapping and cratering studies to determine the geologic evolution and history of icy satellites.
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Dr. Julie D. Stopar

Senior Staff Scientist
Studies the geology of the Moon, including impact cratering, volcanism, and regolith processes.
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Dr. Allan H. Treiman

Principal Scientist
Geochemistry, petrology, and geology of solid bodies in the inner solar system, emphasizing igneous rocks and metamorphism. Targets include Mars, Venus, and the Moon, with a focus on martian meteorites and the Mars rover missions.
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