Postdoctoral Position in Astrochemistry and Planetology at Aix-Marseille University (PIIM Laboratory)

A postdoctoral position is available in Astrochemistry and Planetology at Aix-Marseille University, within the PIIM laboratory, focusing on the impact of space weathering on the detection of organic matter in mineral matrices simulating solar system bodies. The research aims to investigate the origin and chemical evolution of extraterrestrial organic matter in aqueous environments of solar system bodies such as comets, asteroids, and Mars. These bodies are rich in organic matter, and their study provides insights into the delivery and transformation of organic compounds that could have contributed to prebiotic chemistry on planets and satellites. The project will experimentally simulate the fate of organic matter on planetary surfaces using analogs and meteorites, with a particular emphasis on in-house analogs synthesized during the ORGAMISS ANR project. The postdoctoral researcher will conduct irradiation experiments (ultraviolet and ion exposure) on these analogs, monitor their evolution, and use infrared spectroscopy to compare results with remote observations of planetary surfaces. The work will also involve using spare instruments from Mars missions (such as OMEGA) for direct comparison and creating a database of samples for future space mission data analysis. The successful candidate will join the ORGAMISS project team within the ASTRO group at PIIM, collaborating with Cateline Lantz (IAS laboratory, Orsay) and Fabien Stalport (LISA laboratory, Créteil). The position requires a PhD (or near completion) in astrochemistry, planetary sciences, chemistry, or a related field, with experience in spectroscopic techniques (IR, UV, Raman) and experimental work. The role includes interpreting results, leading publication writing, and participating in conferences and lab exchanges. The position is funded for one year, with a possible second year based on satisfactory progress, and offers a gross annual salary between 31,400 € and 36,700 €. The expected start date is before July 2026. Interested candidates should send a CV, research interests, publication list, and contact details for two referees as a single PDF to [email protected]. For more details, visit the project page linked above.