Space Science: The Environments of Early Complex Life
All applications must be submitted in Zintellect
Please visit the NASA Postdoctoral Program website for application instructions and requirements: How to Apply | NASA Postdoctoral Program (orau.org)
A complete application to the NASA Postdoctoral Program includes:
- Research proposal
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official doctoral transcript documents
About the NASA Postdoctoral Program
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.
Description: The evolution of multicellular life occurred during a period of Earth history characterized by profound global change in the operation of Earth‘s biosphere. Geochemical records preserved in sedimentary rocks provide critical indicators of unprecedented shifts in the redox state of the ocean and atmosphere and the climate system at this time. To fully understand these changes and their potential influence on biology and global biogeochemical cycles requires detailed reconstructions of paleoenvironmental conditions from the rocks that are examined. The potential influence of post-depositional alteration must also be considered during interpretation of geochemical signals. To this end, this project involves developing mineralogical and geochemical tools for identifying the depositional conditions and environments of Precambrian sedimentary rocks and distinguishing primary versus secondary geochemical signals.
Location:
Ames Research Center
Moffet Field, California
Field of Science:Astrobiology
Advisors:
Thomas Bristow
thomas.f.bristow@nasa.gov
650-604-4665
Niki Parenteau
Mary.n.parenteau@nasa.gov
650.604.0784
Applications with citizens from Designated Countries will not be accepted at this time, unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the United States. A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at: https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/export-control.
Eligibility is currently open to:
- U.S. Citizens;
- U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR);
- Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J-1 visa status; and,
- Applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. at the time of application with 1) a valid EAD card and 2) I-485 or I-589 forms in pending status
Questions about this opportunity? Please email npp@orau.org
- Degree: Doctoral Degree.
ORAU Pathfinder
Whether you are just starting your career or already at a senior level, ORAU offers internships, fellowships, research opportunities, and contract positions that can provide you with invaluable experience. Download the ORAU Pathfinder mobile app and find the right opportunity to propel you along your career path!



