PostDoc - Patterns on the rocks (Closed)

The “Patterns on the Rocks” project led by Prof. Garcia-Ruiz teams a group of scientists aiming to reveal the origin of different mineral, organic, and mineral-organic patterns to be found during the mission of ExoMars on the surface and subsurface of Mars by the rover Rosalind Franklin. We have prepared a working plan to design and perform experiments, analytical characterizations, and computer simulations to identify possible signatures of life in these patterns or, alternatively, offer a non-biological explanation.

• A broad interest in the early history of the Earth and the origin and evolution of early life.
• Fluency in English and a willingness to travel and interact in a strongly interdisciplinary team.
• Completed scientific university degree (Master's level or Diploma) and completed PhD in Chemistry, Organic chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related sciences.
• Proven skills in the synthesis of organic chemical compounds related to prebiotic chemistry.
• Proven skills in the characterization of organic molecules by most advances techniques.
• Ability to demonstrate sufficient knowledge and expertise to manage shared instrumentation facilities used for research.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2024/09/02

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Donostia International Physics Center is a family-friendly, diverse international institution. We welcome all applicants regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

The DIPC strives to increase the number of women in the academy and strongly encourages applications from suitably qualified female candidates.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2024/28
• Application deadline: 2024/07/30
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (40%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (40%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

This contract is carried out under Rosalind Franklin Science Knowledge Program and funded by the European Space Agency