Quantitative Mineralogy and Life Detection using Raman and LIBS Spectroscopy

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects. This specific fellowship focuses on the development of advanced in-situ spectrometers for planetary science at JPL. Postdoctoral scholars will participate in developing an integrated Raman/LIBS spectrometer capable of measuring spectra at standoff distances from centimeters to meters, with goals including demonstrating quantitative mineralogy and elemental analysis in extreme environments such as simulated Venus surface conditions and cold, high-pressure liquid environments beneath ice-covered oceans. The position also involves developing specialized ultraviolet Raman spectrometers designed to detect resonant enhanced Raman spectra of organic compounds representing biosignatures on Mars, Europa, Enceladus, Titan, and other bodies where life may exist. All projects are laboratory-oriented and require hands-on instrument development work in areas including lasers, optical instrument design, electronics, spectroscopy, and chemometric techniques. These competitive one- to three-year fellowships are designed to advance NASA's missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.