Understanding the Formation of Kerogen in Chaotropic & Kosmotropic Environments

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

This project will investigate the early diagenetic processes potentially occurring in terrestrial ecosystems as a means to better understand the early geochemical drivers of the formation and degradation of more recalcitrant classes of organic matter (i.e., lipids and kerogen). We will use laboratory experiments to understand how salt content, concentration and wet/dry cycling to better predict the chemical nature of biogenic organics incorporated into insoluble macro molecular structures. Results will have primary relevance to ancient and modern Mars and other salt-rich organics-containing targets in the Solar System such as Enceladus and Europa. The project's goal is to understand the role of water availability driving the initial formation of recalcitrant molecular biosignatures, namely kerogen, across various salt composition (i.e., chao- and kosmo- tropicity).

Requirements

• Research proposal
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official doctoral transcript documents

Qualifications

A completed doctoral degree in a relevant field by the start date of the appointment is required. Candidates should have a strong background in astrobiology, geobiology, geochemistry, or related fields. Experience with organic geochemistry, microbial ecology, and/or Mars analog studies is preferred.

Skills

Strong communication skills, ability to work independently and collaboratively, and proficiency in scientific writing and data analysis are essential. Knowledge of Mars analog studies and experience with laboratory-based research are desirable.

Benefits

The NPP provides a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement savings plan, and relocation assistance.

Pay

The starting salary for the NPP is $75,000 per year, which may be adjusted based on qualifications and experience.

Schedule

The fellowship is a one- to three-year appointment, commencing in October 2026.