Postdoctoral Fellow in Prebiotic Organo-Carbonate Formation

The Department of Geological Sciences is part of the Faculty of Science at Stockholm University. It consists of approximately 80 teachers, researchers, doctoral students, and technical/administrative staff.  The department conducts a wide range of fundamental and applied research within marine geology and geophysics, geochemistry and classical geology.

More information about us, please visit: the Department of Geological Sciences.

Project description

The research project addresses the question of the origin of life on Earth by exploring the transition from prebiotic to biotic worlds. The project focuses on the critical role of organic-mineral interactions in abiotic conditions resembling early Archean Earth. A central aim is to define distinct criteria for organosignatures – organically influenced mineralization without a specific cell signature – and to differentiate them from biosignatures, which are unequivocal evidence of life. Through laboratory studies, this research aims to produce a 'proof of concept' that could change our view of Earth's early history before the emergence of life and also be relevant for the search for extraterrestrial life.

The successful candidate will design and perform experiments that mimic early Earth conditions, focusing on the formation and characterization of prebiotic organic matter and its initial interactions with minerals. This role requires knowledge on synthetic organic chemistry advanced analytical skills, and a profound interest in the understanding of early Earth geological and geochemical processes.

The successful candidate will carry out the research in close partnership with the University of Fribourg (UniFR) and the University of Connecticut, under the co-supervision of Dr. Dupraz (Stockholm University) and Prof. Anneleen Foubert (UniFR).

Main responsibilities

• Lead the experimental design to simulate early Archean conditions. This includes modeling polymerization and fluid-organic interactions, considering 'Possible Archean' Ocean Composition scenarios.
• Be responsible for the production and characterization of 'organofilms' from simple prebiotic organic matter. This involves conducting polymerization experiments.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques, including RAMAN spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF MS, to characterize the composition, structure, and functional groups of synthesized organic materials and organofilms.
• Design and perform experiments to investigate how these prebiotic organic materials interact with minerals under simulated Archean conditions. 

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage. Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment process, the selection among the eligible candidates is based on their expected capacity to complete the project tasks. We are seeking a person with expertise in organic chemistry with a foundation in geosciences to conduct research in prebiotic organomineralization.

The following criteria are used to assess this capacity:

• documented knowledge in geochemistry, mineralogy, organic chemistry, prebiotic chemistry, or related laboratory work.
• Keen interest in geological processes, early Earth environments, and mineral-organic interactions.
• experience with experimental systems simulating environmental conditions, and/or analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, microscopy, or isotope geochemistry.
• A PhD in Organic Chemistry, Geochemistry, Astrobiology, Earth Sciences, or a closely related field.
• Expertise in organic synthesis, polymerization chemistry, or advanced organic material characterization.
• Keen interest in geological processes, early Earth environments, and mineral-organic interactions.
• Proven experience in laboratory experimental work, especially in controlled environmental settings.
• Experience in analytical techniques such as Raman, MALDI-TOF-MS, HPLC is welcomed.
• Willingness to learn new techniques (e.g., MicroCT Scan, FIB-SEM).
• Written and oral proficiency in English.
• Analytical skills, ability to collaborate.
• creativity, initiative, and independence.

The evaluation is based on previous education and experience, quality of previous published research, ambition expressed in the motivation letter, description of the proposed project direction and potentially interviews. 

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for two years. Start date as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from the Associate Professor Christophe Dupraz, christophe.dupraz@geo.su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.