Space & Planetary Scientist · Educator · Researcher · Crafter
Eriita Jones
Planetary science, Earth observation, teaching, student mentorship, community engagement, and creative practice - woven together into a single, evidence-grounded, connection-driven approach.
Hi, I’m Eriita. I am currently based at Curtin University, where I work as a researcher, lecturer, and supervisor within the Space Science and Technology Centre and the School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, and as an Earth Observation Specialist with the Binar Space Program.
Alongside this, I am a pre-service primary teacher, a private tutor, and a creative practitioner. I care deeply about supporting learning at all levels and creating inclusive, accessible ways for people to engage with science.
As you explore this site, I warmly invite you to reach out if you would like to connect, collaborate, or discuss ideas.
My work is driven by a deep commitment to connecting with both nature and people: in the search for life and habitable environments beyond Earth, and in supporting the habitability of communities facing increasingly complex, human-driven climate challenges here on Earth. I am passionate about working with space-derived datasets and ensuring that scientific knowledge and tools are accessible, shared, and empowering for the communities who engage with them.
I am also strongly motivated to address the structural inequalities and biases experienced by women and underrepresented groups - including Indigenous Australians, people with disability, and LGBTQIA+ communities - particularly within STEM. I recognise that these barriers begin well before formal careers, and I am committed to contributing to more equitable, inclusive, and supportive pathways into science.
Threads of my work
Research
Educational Practice
Community & Public Engagement
Research into the conditions that sustain life- across planetary environments and Earth systems - focusing on planetary habitability, impact cratering, water resources, fuel loads and bushfire dynamics, using satellite remote sensing, data integration, and machine learning.
View publications (Google Scholar)
Outreach, workshops, and collaborative projects that connect planetary science and Earth observation with communities — including public events, school programs, and partnerships that support accessible and meaningful engagement with science.
Teaching, supervision, and mentorship across primary, secondary, and tertiary contexts — including honours, Masters, and PhD supervision, and over 20 years of tutoring and lecturing. Grounded in inclusive, learner‑centred pedagogy, I support students to engage actively, challenge ideas, and develop critical thinking and independent reasoning.
Creative Practice
Bespoke creative work including cards, stickers, jewellery, accessories, and mugs, alongside branding and designed items for community and charity fundraisers. Also a musician, playing flute, soprano, alto and tenor recorders, and voice. This creative practice is closely integrated with my research and education work, contributing to accessible and engaging ways of connecting and sharing knowledge.