Detection of Biosignatures by Liquid-Based Analysis

About the role

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. These one- to three-year fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.

Responsibilities

• Development of analytical protocols for detection of biosignatures using liquid based analysis.
• Extraction protocols and analysis by capillary electrophoresis coupled to multiple detection systems targeting a range of organic and inorganic compounds relevant to the search for life.
• Utilization of both commercial capillary electrophoresis instruments and custom built hardware.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in chemistry or a chemistry-related discipline with a strong background in analytical chemistry.
• Experience in capillary electrophoresis coupled to fluorescence detection and electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry is highly desirable.
• Experience analyzing natural samples is also a significant asset.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in chemistry.

Skills

• Strong background in analytical chemistry.
• Experience with capillary electrophoresis and related techniques.
• Experience with natural sample analysis.

Benefits

• One- to three-year fellowship.
• Opportunity to work on NASA research projects.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.

Pay

• Salary commensurate with experience.

Schedule

• Full-time position.

Benefits

• Health insurance.
• Retirement plan.
• Professional development opportunities.

Field of Science

• Astrobiology.

Advisors

• Maria Mora - maria.mora@jpl.nasa.gov (818) 731-8800.

Eligibility Requirements

• U.S. Citizens;
• U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR);
• Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J-1 visa status;
• Applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. at the time of application with 1) a valid EAD card and 2) I-485 or I-589 forms in pending status.

Contact Information

• Point of Contact: Mikeala