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Postdoctoral Positions in Prebiotic (Geo)chemistry

Postdoctoral Positions in Prebiotic (Geo)chemistry

The Ozturk Lab (ozturklab.caltech.edu) at Caltech (PI: Professor Furkan Ozturk) invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to serve as a co-investigator in research on prebiotic (geo)chemistry and the origins of life. This position is part of an interdisciplinary environment that integrates geosciences, chemistry, and physics to investigate fundamental questions about the emergence of life on Earth and beyond.

The postdoctoral researcher will lead a project and develop custom-designed tools to study the post-impact conditions of early Earth's atmosphere and its photochemical evolution, with the goal of understanding the formation of feedstock molecules that could have set the stage for prebiotic chemistry.

Appointment details:

Full-time postdoctoral appointment for 2–3 years with an annual stipend of $76,000. The starting date is flexible, with a preferred start as soon as possible.

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead the construction of a cavity-based experimental system simulating post-impact conditions of early Earth atmospheres and their photochemical evolution.
  • Analyze gaseous chemical mixtures using infrared spectroscopy to identify the chemical distribution of reaction products, identify potential formation pathways, and perform complementary ex situ analyses.
  • Prepare regular research reports, present results, conduct literature reviews, and contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts and conference presentations.
  • Ensure proper maintenance and functionality of laboratory instruments and equipment.

Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in experimental physics, physical chemistry, space sciences, atmospheric sciences, or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience with optics, IR spectroscopy, multi-pass optical cavities, and analytical chemistry techniques & familiarity with custom instrumentation design and construction.
  • Familiarity with analytical chemistry techniques, including GC-MS and NMR.
  • Demonstrated a strong track record of scientific publishing and communication, evidenced by high-quality publications, presentations, and leadership of research projects.
  • A strong interest in understanding the origins of life and its geochemical foundations using an interdisciplinary approach.

Materials:

(1) CV

(2) a one-page cover letter describing relevant experience, expertise, and interests

(3) representative publications

(4) contact information for three references.

Applications and questions should be addressed to Professor Ozturk ([email protected]). The job posting will remain open until the position is filled.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is committed to working with and providing access and reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical or mental disabilities. To request disability accommodations for any part of the interview or hiring process, please contact 626-395-6111 or [email protected] for assistance.