Planetary science
degrees are available primarily at the graduate level.
Planetary science is an interdisciplinary field involving aspects of geophysics, astronomy, atmospheric and oceanic sciences, geology and astrophysics, among other sciences. Scientists in the field study the composition, atmosphere, physics and more of astral bodies ranging from moons to planets to asteroids, including earth. Some planetary scientists even study meteor fragments found on Earth. Jobs in the field of planetary sciences are available in the public and private sectors, at schools, research departments, museums and more.
Federal Jobs
A number of governmental agencies employ planetary scientists. Most of these jobs exist at the federal level. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration employs planetary scientists in many capacities, from investigating claims of life on Mars to researching material transmitted by the Hubble space telescope and working with astronomers on projects involving distance solar systems and astral bodies. The United States Geological Survey hires planetary scientists who study the physics and life history of Earth. Planetary scientists experienced in the fields of remote sensing may find work for the Department of Defense. The National Park Service employs planetary scientists specializing in the study of Earth.
Academic Jobs
Many planetary scientists find jobs at colleges or universities. Academic science positions combine teaching with research and publishing. Though academic positions require scientists to do all of these things, some stress the former while others stress the latter. Planetary scientists who prefer teaching to researching should seek positions in schools with minimal research facilities and endowments. Those who prefer research and working as part of a large team should seek schools with prominent planetary science departments, cutting-edge research facilities and an emphasis on graduate-level students and the publication of findings. Universities with planetary science departments include the University of California at Berkeley, University of Pittsburgh and the University of Colorado.
Museum Jobs
Museum jobs in planetary science concern the education of the general public and large groups of young children. The nature of these jobs ranges from interacting with the public through lectures, guided tours or demonstrations to helping the museum present its material and arrange its exhibits in such a way that even those with the most rudimentary knowledge of science and planets can understand and learn from it. The Rose Center of Earth and Space Science at the American Museum of Natural History employs a number of scientists of this nature.
Other Jobs
A number of private industries employ planetary scientists. Industries that work in the earth, such as mining, oil and other mineral extraction operations, employ geologists and planetary scientists to ensure the safety of employees and the continuing profitability of operations. State governments employ planetary scientists specializing in study of Earth to examine the operations of such companies. Non-profit organizations working to protect the earth and its resources also employ planetary scientists, as do those working on government contract to develop equipment used in geological or space surveying. Planetary scientists may also do work for television networks like the Discovery Channel when developing programs and documentaries on planets and space.
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