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Explore planetary science career development and professional pathways in this hour-long interview featuring Dr. Alyssa Rhoden, Principal Scientist at Southwest Research Institute. Discover how a planetary scientist navigated her career from completing a physics degree at the University of Arizona through a PhD in Earth and Planetary Science at Berkeley, to holding positions at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, Arizona State University, and her current role at SwRI. Learn about Dr. Rhoden's specialized research on Europa's rotation and fracture history through modeling of tidal-tectonic processes, and her ongoing work advancing scientific knowledge of icy moons. Gain insights into balancing high-level scientific careers with personal life, including strategies for managing motherhood alongside professional advancement in planetary science. Understand the challenges and opportunities in planetary science careers, from postdoctoral fellowships to mission scientist roles, and discover practical advice for students and early-career scientists seeking their place in the field. Examine how professionals can achieve both career and personal goals through innovation and creativity, drawing from Dr. Rhoden's experiences transitioning between academic and research institute positions while maintaining active involvement in major space missions like Europa Clipper.