NASA Postdoctoral Program - Investigating Spectroscopic and X-ray Diffraction Properties of Mars Analog Sulfate Minerals

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 opportunity focuses on Mars planetary science research, investigating the spectroscopic and X-ray diffraction properties of Mars analog sulfate minerals. The research will enhance knowledge of how Mars-relevant physical parameters influence the stability and occurrence of sulfate phases, with particular focus on Ca, Mg, and Fe sulfates which are abundant on Mars. These minerals provide important clues into the aqueous history and past and present conditions on the planet.