Postdoctoral Research position in Astrochemistry/Planetology

The team of the project ORGAMISS within the ASTRO team of the PIIM laboratory in Marseille (France) is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to investigate the impact of space weathering to detect organic matter in mineral matrices simulating solar system bodies.

This project investigates the origin and chemical evolution of extraterrestrial organic matter in past or present aqueous environments of Solar System bodies. The project will experimentally simulate the fate of organic matter on the surface of bodies (asteroids, Mars) using analogs and meteorites and define biases for the detection of OM in mineral matrices.

The preferred candidate will have a PhD (or close to completion) in astrochemistry, planetary sciences, chemistry or a closely related field, with knowledge and familiarity in spectroscopic techniques (IR, UV, Raman) and experimental works. The candidate should have demonstrated skills for experiments and/or analytics during the PhD or postdoctoral positions.

For more information, click here (PDF file).

The starting date is expected before July 2026.
Please send a CV, a description of research interests, a publication list, and email addresses of 2 referees as a single PDF file to Vassilissa.vinogradoff@univ-amu.fr

European Lunar Symposium (ELS) 2026, France

The next European Lunar Symposium (ELS) will take place at the Aquarium Museum of Nancy, in Nancy, France, from June 21–26, 2026.

Abstract submission and registration for ELS 2026 are now open!

Please visit the meeting webpage at https://sservi.nasa.gov/dev-els2026/ and note the various deadlines.

The European Lunar Symposium (ELS) is an annual international conference that brings together around 200 researchers, engineers, and professionals working on lunar science and exploration. Hosted each year in a different European city, ELS provides a key forum for presenting cutting-edge research, fostering collaborations, and discussing Europe’s role in the future of lunar exploration. ELS is excited to host the community for a week filled with thought-provoking discussions, inspiring sessions, and unique cultural experiences.

3rd OHP International Summer School (23-27th June 2025; Observatoire de Haute Provence, France)

Institut Origines is pleased to announce the 3rd OHP International Summer School. This exceptional event invites you to explore the frontiers of life through an interdisciplinary approach!

Program highlights: Lectures and round-table discussions featuring renowned experts in prebiotic chemistry, microbiology, exobiology, planetology, astrophysics, philosophy, and law. These sessions will be moderated by an award-winning science journalist, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the fundamental questions surrounding the origin and evolution of life.

Don’t miss this chance to discover the latest research and connect with scientists from around the world in a unique setting!

Pre-register via this link: https://institut-origines.univ-amu.fr/fr/formation/ecoles-ete

Speakers: Chantal Abergel, Mélanie Baroni, James Bradley, Jean-Michel Claverie, Magali Deleuil, Simon Duval, David Ehrenreich, Gaël Erauso, Vincent Hue, Frédéric Laurie, Dominique Leglu, Martina Preiner, Pascal Taranto, Nicolas Thouveny, and more…

Poster credit: Sarah Anderson