MSc, PhD, Post Doctoral Fellow positions available 2010

About the Program

The Canadian Astrobiology Training Program (CATP) is the first Canadian cross-disciplinary, multi-institutional undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral training program in Astrobiology. Funded by NSERC’s Collaborative Research and Training Experience Program (CREATE) from 2009-2015, CATP is based at McGill University, McMaster University, University of Western Ontario, University of Toronto, and the University of Winnipeg.

Astrobiology is the scientific study of the origin, evolution, distribution, conditions, and destiny of life in the universe. This transdisciplinary field integrates geology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, microbiology, and robotics, driven by recent discoveries of microbial life thriving in extreme Earth environments and advances in space exploration technologies.

CATP trainees (~70 graduate and undergraduate students, postdoctoral fellows over six years) will engage in innovative research combining fieldwork at unique Canadian analogue sites, including the high Arctic, with laboratory work at cutting-edge analytical facilities. Training includes interdisciplinary supervision, course and seminar videoconferencing, and professional rotations with collaborators such as the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), MDA Space Missions, and NASA Ames.

Graduates will be at the forefront of the search for life beyond Earth, addressing the shortage of highly qualified personnel (HQP) in space science and fostering Canadian participation in future Mars missions. Skills acquired are transferable to fields like Earth and environmental sciences, robotics, medicine, and astronomy.

Positions Available

We are seeking applicants for the following positions available in 2010:

• Graduate Student Fellowships (MSc and PhD)
• Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) positions

Requirements

Successful applicants will have:

• A strong interest in astrobiology
• An excellent background in one or more of the following disciplines: microbiology/molecular biology, geology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, robotics, or related fields

Application Details

Applications will be accepted until January 15, 2010.

For more information, visit the CATP website or contact:

Mr. Robert Oxley
NSERC CREATE CATP Project Coordinator
McGill University
Telephone: (514) 398-7901
Email: robert.oxley@mcgill.ca