Category: Astrobiology

Postdoctoral Fellowship (2 years) in Chemistry with focus on Planetary Geochemistry and Spectroscopy

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Department: Chemistry
City: Umeå
Category: , , , ,
Country: Sweden
Contact Person: Merve Yesilbas
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Umeå University
Application Due Date: Friday, September 30 2022
Web Link: https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/postdoctoral-scholarships/7-1521-22/

The aim of the project is to resolve preservation conditions of potential ancient life signatures on Mars using vibrational spectroscopy.

If you are interested in discovering this fascinating phenomena related to Mars, you are welcome to apply for a fully funded two-year postdoctoral fellowship.

The postdoctoral fellow will get the opportunity to perform several laboratory experiments, mainly using vibrational spectroscopy. The postdoctoral fellow will participate in designing, data acquisition and analysis processes. We offer a unique opportunity to learn high-end techniques, especially for cryogenic studies, and to build a scientific network in astrobiology and planetary science fields.

The candidate must have a PhD degree in (geo)chemistry, planetary science, astrobiology, geosciences, or physics. Very good skills in written and spoken English are required. We seek a candidate who is highly motivated, analytical, problem-solving, and is able to independently make progression in their projects, and has excellent skills in project management and organization as well as communication. The candidate should have previous experience with vibrational spectroscopy techniques and be familiar with data analysis. Experience in ice chemistry research and/or geological materials is a merit.

The application deadline is Sep 30, 2022. 

https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/postdoctoral-scholarships/7-1521-22/

Further information can be obtained from Assistant Prof. Dr. Merve Yeşilbaş , e-mail: [email protected],  web: https://www.yesilbaslab.com. We look forward to receiving your application!

PhD Student Position (4 years) in Chemistry with focus on Planetary Geochemistry and Spectroscopy

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Department: Chemistry
City: Umeå
Category: , , , ,
Country: Sweden
Contact Person: Merve Yesilbas
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Umeå University
Application Due Date: Friday, September 23 2022
Web Link: https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/open-positions/ph.d.-in-chemistry-with-focus-on-planetary-geochemistry-and-spectroscopy_537288/

Is there water on Mars? What is the role of water in martian geochemical history? How can we reveal the potential water resources for future human explorations on Mars?

If you are interested in discovering all these fascinating phenomena related to Mars, you are welcome to apply for a fully funded four-year PhD student position.

The doctoral student will conduct mainly experimental work by preparing several martian analogues including sulfate and Cl-salt mixtures, and conducting cryogenic vibrational spectroscopy experiments at our laboratory. Furthermore, the doctoral student will perform the remote sensing analyzes from Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars (CRISM) of NASA by bridging the laboratory spectra to the martian orbit data to understand aqueous history of Mars.

The successful candidate should have a MSc or equivalent degree in geochemistry, planetary science, astrobiology and physical chemistry. Practical experience in vibrational spectroscopy to characterize minerals, rocks and soils and/or advanced spectral data evaluation (MATLAB, R, Python) are meriting. Experience in remote sensing (ENVI-IDL) software is also meriting but not requirement.

You must apply through our e-recruitment system. Log in and apply using the link at the bottom of the page. The application deadline is Sep 23rd, 2022. 

https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/open-positions/ph.d.-in-chemistry-with-focus-on-planetary-geochemistry-and-spectroscopy_537288/

Further information can be obtained from Assistant Prof. Dr. Merve Yeşilbaş , e-mail: [email protected],  web: https://www.yesilbaslab.com. We look forward to receiving your application!

Tenure-Track Position in Geomicrobiology

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Department: Department of Earth Sciences
City: London
State/Province: Ontario
Category:
Country: Canada
Contact Person: Catherine Neish
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: The University of Western Ontario
Application Due Date: Sunday, June 19 2022
Web Link: https://www.uwo.ca/facultyrelations/careers/pdf/Science_Geomicrobiology_2022.pdf

The Department of Earth Sciences in the Faculty of Science at the University of Western Ontario (Western) invites applications for a probationary (tenure-track) position in Geomicrobiology at the Assistant Professor level. The applicant must demonstrate a record of excellent research and strong commitment to teaching, appropriate to the applicant s career stage, within the broad area of geomicrobiology and related fields. A strong background and a compelling interest in the processes coupling the geosphere and the biosphere (past and present) are essential in the applicant. These processes might include, but are not limited to, microbiological applications in environmental science (biological remediation of environmental contaminants, biomineralization processes in the remediation and reprocessing of mine tailings), economic geology (microbial-catalyzed processes in mineral deposit geology and microbially enhanced oil recovery), astrobiology (extremophile behaviour, origin and evolution of life on Earth, and the search for life in the Universe), and/or biogeophysics (biogeobatteries and changes to near- subsurface properties due to microbial interactions with geological materials, e.g. biofilm clogging of porosity).

A strong track record of scientific achievements, as demonstrated by publications in leading journals and a proven aptitude for interdisciplinary research, is essential. Interest in field- oriented research would also be an asset. The successful candidate is expected to pursue and establish an externally funded research program that is recognized and competitive at the national and international levels. The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary environment and build upon research strengths and capacity that align with the strategic plans of the Department, the Faculty of Science, and the University. A strong commitment to effective teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels will be apparent from the successful candidate s teaching statement and letters of reference. The candidate must demonstrate an aptitude for interdisciplinary teaching, as the successful candidate will teach in Western’s Integrated Science (WISc) program (https://www.uwo.ca/sci/wisc/).

Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in an Earth Sciences field (Geology/Geophysics), Biology/Microbiology, or a related field, with research and publications encompassing the interface between Earth Sciences and Biology. The salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

About Western: Western University strives to deliver an academic experience second to none. Western challenges the best and brightest faculty, staff and students to commit to the highest global standards. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real- world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities. The Western Integrated Science (WISc) undergraduate program was initiated almost a decade ago and boasts career-ready graduates. For more information go to https://www.uwo.ca/sci/wisc/.

About the Department: The Department of Earth Sciences (the Department) is one of seven departments in the Faculty of Science at Western. The Department s research and teaching programs encompass a broad range of complementary and interrelated geoscience disciplines that fall within four themes: Earth and Planetary Systems, Resource Geoscience, Tectonic Processes and Crustal Dynamics, and Earth Evolution: Life, Climate and Environment. Further information can be found at https://www.uwo.ca/earth/research/index.html. In July 2021, Western s undergraduate Environmental Science program officially moved within the purview of the Department. The Department currently offers programs for professional registration in Geology, Geophysics, and in Environmental Geoscience. The multi-disciplinarity of the Department s expertise has resulted in teaching and research collaborations across Western s campus, such as with Anthropology, Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Geography, Law, Physics & Astronomy, Statistics & Actuarial Sciences, and Visual Arts. We also have strong ties to the Institute for Earth and Space Exploration (Western Space), and our collaborative graduate program in planetary science is unique in Canada. The Department of Earth Sciences is committed to improving Equity and Diversity in our university community in line with policies such as the strategic planning by our Office of Indigenous Initiatives (https://indigenous.uwo.ca/initiatives/plan-reports.html).

Applications must include the following:

  1. a cover letter outlining qualifications for the position

  2. a detailed curriculum vitae*

  3. a maximum two-page document describing the candidate s proposed research program

  4. a maximum two-page statement describing teaching philosophy and teaching interests

  5. the names and email addresses of 3 references

  6. Applicants must also complete and submit the Faculty Relations application form:

    https://www.uwo.ca/facultyrelations/pdf/full-time-application-form.pdf

*Western recognizes the potential impact that career interruptions can have on a candidate’s record of research achievement, and potential candidates are encouraged to list career disruptions. If feasible, candidates are encouraged to explain within their application the impact these career interruptions have had and to submit a full career or extended CV.

The application should be submitted as a single PDF file to [email protected], Department of Earth Sciences.

Applications will be reviewed starting June 19, 2022 and will continue to be considered until the position is filled. The preferred starting date is January 2023, but is negotiable.

Positions are subject to budget approval. Applicants should have fluent written and oral communication skills in English. The University invites applications from all qualified individuals.

Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

In accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the application and recruitment process. If you require accommodations, please contact Kristen Harris at 519-661- 3191 or [email protected].

Effective September 7, 2021, all employees and visitors to campus are required to comply with Western’s COVID-19 Vaccination Policy. Details can be found at:https://www.uwo.ca/univsec/pdf/policies_procedures/section3/mapp311_covi…

Posted on Faculty Relations website May 17, 2022 (#2022-058)

Postdoctoral Scholar in Climate of Exoplanets and/or Mars

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Department: Department of the Geophysical Sciences
City: Chicago
State/Province: IL
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Edwin Kite
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Chicago
Application Due Date: Monday, July 04 2022
Web Link: http://sseh.uchicago.edu

The Department of the Geophysical Sciences at The University of Chicago seeks to hire a

postdoctoral scholar to support investigations of the habitability of exoplanets and/or Mars

through modeling of planetary atmosphere evolution and climate. The successful candidate

will work with Associate Professor Edwin Kite (sseh.uchicago.edu) to construct new models for

planetary atmosphere evolution and modify and run existing models of planetary climate.

Candidates should have a background in Planetary Science, Earth Science, or Astrophysics, and

have experience working with models including radiative transfer and/or planetary climate. An

early start date is preferred, however this is negotiable with the successful candidate.

The University of Chicago hosts a vibrant planets and exoplanets research program, with particular

emphasis on terrestrial and sub-Neptune exoplanets: https://geosci.uchicago.edu/planetaryscience-

planetary-atmospheres-and-exoplanets/,

https://astro.uchicago.edu/research/exoplanets.php.

Application materials should be received by July 4 for full consideration. Applicants should send

a CV, a brief description of research interests and experience, and a list of publications as a single

PDF file to [email protected]. Applicants should also arrange to have two letters of reference

sent to this email address. Please direct informal inquiries about this post to Edwin Kite

([email protected]).

Initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year, and comes

with a competitive salary and generous benefits.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the

highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages diverse perspectives, experiences, groups of

individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and

exchange. The University’s Statements on Diversity are at https://provost.uchicago.edu/

statements-diversity. The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal

Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,

religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an

individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected

classes under the law. For additional information please see the University’s Notice of

Nondiscrimination. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the

application process should email

Section Manager, Planetary Sciences Section

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Department: Planetary Science Section
City: Pasadena
State/Province: California
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Cheryl Cooperstein
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
Application Due Date: Friday, June 03 2022
Web Link: https://citjpl.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Jobs/job/JPL-Campus/Section-Manager--Planetary-Science-Section--3220-_R2235

The Planetary Sciences Section provides scientific leadership in planetary science and astrobiology, including small solar system bodies, life detection, and planetary habitability, via basic research, advanced instrumentation, and mission concept development.  We are seeking a Section Manager, who will lead the Section Science Management Team, and report to the Science Division Manager. As the Section Manager, you will have the opportunity to interact and partner with NASA and with senior JPL leadership in representing the Section, and be responsible for defining and implementing the vision for the Section as an organization and as a planetary science and astrobiology research institution.  In this role, you will develop deep knowledge on the multi-disciplinary work being done related to planetary science across the Lab and NASA, and forge new connections that will benefit both you, and the Section.  This is a full-time position with a 0.7FTE commitment, and you will be expected to also maintain your active scientific work.

In this role, your responsibilities will include: 

  • Developing, aligning, and interfacing the needs of various research groups within the Laboratory’s overall Division 32 Charter.
  • Representing the Section on scientific and technical committees and advisory boards, and Interfacing with the Laboratory’s management and NASA Program Offices. 
  • Developing comprehensive research and strategic plans that meet requirements and expectations of the Science Division, Solar System Exploration Program Directorate, and the NASA Planetary Science Division, to provide new and innovative opportunities for the research staff.
  • Recruiting and developing an outstanding, diverse, and inclusive staff, consistent with the Lab’s programmatic and administrative goals.
  • Working with Science and Business Management to facilitate all aspects of Section operations. 
  • Executing other ad-hoc assignments as assigned by Division Management.

Regular duties of the Science Management Team, as led by the Section Manager, include:

  • Fostering a favorable and inclusive work and research environment with a focus on mentoring, coaching, and professional development opportunities.
  • Reviewing and tracking proposals for internal and external research programs, as well as for competed instruments and missions.
  • Reviewing and tracking professional products from the Section, including publications, presentations, and reports.
  • Selecting and preparing research highlights representing science activities in the Section.
  • Improving and implementing recruitment and hiring best practices for Affiliates, Postdocs, and Employees.
  • Maintaining extensive familiarity with the professional work and expertise of Section members.
  • Reviewing and acting on Ethics-related issues such as Outside Activity Requests and mitigation of conflicts of interest.
  • Reviewing and overseeing Safety and Travel requests at the Section level.
  • Representing the Section in Science Division, Solar System Exploration Directorate, and other programmatic, strategic, and hiring meetings.
  • Representing the Section in professional training development activities and events.
  • Preparing first drafts of agendas, reports, and nominations for awards and promotions.

 

Qualifications:

 

  • Typically requires a PhD in Physical Science, Biological Science, Engineering or Mathematics or similar disciplines, with a minimum of 8 years related experience.
  • Minimum of 4 years of demonstrated supervisory or management experience with Line, Program, or Project organizations.
  • Multidisciplinary knowledge in Planetary Sciences and Astrobiology, with a proven track record in developing, defining, and implementing an independent scientific research program.
  • Demonstrated scientific bona fides through an extensive publication record.
  • Demonstrated ability to secure competed external funding.
  • Demonstrated commitment to mentorship.
  • Highly developed leadership ability and teamwork skills, with proficiency in one or more of decision-making and delegation, change management, strategy development, and financial/cost management.
  • Has knowledge of industry and/or academic practices in support of diversity, equity and inclusion related to Planetary Science and Astrobiology research, and a demonstrated commitment to advancing improvements in this area.

Desired Skills:

  • Established experience and commitment to developing or supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
  • Experience working with JPL Program Directorates.
  • Expert knowledge of Laboratory and NASA policies and procedures, and government regulations across a range of applications.
  • Knowledge of NASA HQ and Center science Programs/Projects and management practices and procedures.

Applications received by June 3, 2022, will receive full consideration.

Astrobiologist (Physical Scientist, Solar Systems Analysis)

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Department: Astrochemistry Laboratory
City: Greenbelt
State/Province: MD
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Natasha Johnson
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Application Due Date: Monday, April 11 2022
Web Link: http://www.usajobs.gov

The Astrochemistry Laboratory of the Solar System Exploration Division at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center is seeking a full-time analytical research scientist specializing in astrobiology and astrochemistry to work within the Astrobiology Analytical Laboratory. The successful candidate will study molecular distributions, enantiomeric ratios, and compound-specific stable isotopic compositions of soluble organic compounds in extraterrestrial material to inform the origin of life on Earth and solar system formation. This astrobiology position entails developing productive collaborative relationships, leading ground-breaking research, and providing input into future mission/instrument design. This is a GS-13/14 level civil servant position located at NASA-Goddard in Greenbelt, Maryland near Washington, DC.

The posting will run from Thursday, April 7 through Monday, April 11, 2022. Please submit your application during these dates through the USAJobs website (www.usajobs.gov).  

Research Scientist, Origin of life/Prebiotic Chemistry

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Department: Science Division
City: Pasadena
State/Province: California
Category: , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Cheryl Cooperstein
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
Application Due Date: Monday, April 25 2022
Web Link: https://citjpl.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Jobs/job/JPL-Campus/Research-Scientist--Origin-of-life-Prebiotic-Chemistry_R1926

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology invites applications for a staff Scientist in the Laboratory Studies group in the Planetary Science Section at JPL. In this position, you will conduct origin of life/prebiotic chemistry experimental studies and related  astrobiology research.  You will also participate in mission formulation activities, with an emphasis on mission concepts involving Ocean Worlds and Mars life detection/habitability. It is expected that the successful candidate will develop an independently funded research program and will pursue new lines of research focusing on experimental origin of life research and life detection. You will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and give talks at national and international conferences.

This position requires the following qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry with focus on synthetic organic and/or organometallic chemistry or related technical or scientific discipline
  • Experience with experimentation on and analysis of complex organic biological molecules in a planetary context, including mineral / metal driven catalysis of organics.
  • Experience in the design, construction and operation of novel experimental systems to address astrobiology questions, esp. high pressure systems; Experience with sample handling and analysis of oxygen sensitive materials.
  • Demonstrated professional reputation as a productive researcher with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and/or international conferences
  • Familiarity with/ongoing participation in the astrobiology community, and in relating experimental studies and techniques to mission relevant strategic efforts

The following qualifications are preferred:

  • 3-5 years of related post-doc experience
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team of experimental scientists
  • Experience coordinating experiments and analysis between institutes / NASA centers / local universities and non-profits
  • History of writing successful external research funding proposals
  • Excellent oral (including public speaking) and written communication skills

To view the full description of this unique opportunity and apply, please visit: https://citjpl.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Jobs/job/JPL-Campus/Research-Scientist–Origin-of-life-Prebiotic-Chemistry_R1926.

Applications received by April 25, 2022, will receive full consideration.

Investigating the Interiors of Europa and the Uranian Moons

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Department: Planetary Interiors and Geophysics
City: Pasadena
State/Province: CA
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Catherine Elder
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Application Due Date: Thursday, April 14 2022
Web Link: https://citjpl.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Jobs/job/JPL-Campus/Postdoc-Position--Investigating-the-Interiors-of-Europa-and-the-Uranian-Moons_R1691

The postdoctoral research associate will work with Dr. Catherine Elder and Dr. Tom Nordheim to study the interiors of Europa and the Uranian moons. Specifically, the postdoctoral researcher will investigate the plausibility of seafloor volcanism on Europa through mantle convection, magma generation, migration, and eruption modeling. They will also investigate the interior structure and thermal evolution of Miranda and Ariel, with the aim of addressing the question: do these objects have current or geologically recent subsurface oceans?

 

Qualifications: We invite applicants with a recent PhD in planetary science, physics, geology, or a related field. We seek someone who has experience in numerical modeling and a strong background in physics. Previous experience studying icy satellites, mantle convection, or geochemistry is preferred but not required.

Postdoctoral Scholar in Planetary Science and Exoplanets

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Department: Earth and Planetary Sciences
City: Riverside
State/Province: CA
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Stephen Kane
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of California, Riverside
Application Due Date: Friday, December 17 2021
Web Link: https://epsci.ucr.edu/sites/g/files/rcwecm4976/files/2021-10/job_advertisement_postdoc_kane.pdf

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Scholar position in planetary science and exoplanets at the University of California, Riverside (UCR). The successful applicant will work in the Planetary Research Laboratory, led by Dr. Stephen Kane. The primary research activities cover a broad range of exoplanet, planetary science, and astrobiology topics, including exoplanet detection and characterization, Venus (both intrinsically and as an exoplanet analog), orbital dynamics, atmospheres and climate, and planetary habitability. Typical data sources are Kepler, Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), Keck, the Automated Planet Finder (APF), MINERVA-Australis, and various Planetary Data System (PDS) mission archives. The group is also a member of the DAVINCI+ mission, a selected NASA mission to study the Venusian atmosphere. The Postdoctoral Scholar will primarily work on Venus science, Solar System exoplanet analogs, and climate simulations.

Candidates must hold a PhD in astronomy, physics, planetary sciences, geology or related field before their start date. Preference will be given to applicants with expertise in Venus, climate modeling, and/or atmospheric characterization of terrestrial exoplanets. The position is for two years with expected renewal for a third year contingent upon satisfactory research performance. The salary is competitive, and health benefits are provided.

Applicants are requested to submit via email a single PDF file containing a current CV, list of publications, and statement of research interests. The applicant should also arrange for three letters of reference to be submitted, also via email. Complete applications are due by December 17, 2021. E-mail inquiries and application materials should be addressed to: [email protected].

The University of California, Riverside is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, committed to excellence through diversity. We strive to establish a climate that welcomes, celebrates, and promotes respect for the contributions of all students and employees.