Detection of Biosignatures by Liquid-Based Analysis

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. This specific position involves the development of analytical protocols for detection of biosignatures using liquid based analysis. This includes 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. The research will utilize both commercial capillary electrophoresis instruments and custom built hardware. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in chemistry or a chemistry-related discipline with a strong background in analytical chemistry.