Astrobiology Ion Microprobe Research Associate, UW-Madison

The University of Wisconsin is seeking a creative and productive scientist to pursue novel applications of our new CAMECA ims1280 ion microprobe to Astrobiology.

Applicants are encouraged to propose projects of their own design in collaboration with the Wisconsin Astrobiology Research consortium. They will also conduct studies of sulfur four isotopes in Archean sediments and/or carbon isotopes in kerogen. One goal of these investigations is to establish stable isotope signatures of life

The WiscSIMS ims1280 is optimized for in situ analysis of stable isotope ratios (O, C, Mg, Si, S, Li, H, B, N, Ca, Fe). For oxygen isotopes, precision of ±0.1‰ can be obtained from 10 μm spots.

Experience with astrobiology, stable isotope geochemistry, SIMS, electron beam instruments, or mass-spectrometry is desirable.

Duties will include a mix of independent published research, assistance and collaboration with users of the lab, and assistance with the 1280.

For further information see: http://www.geology.wisc.edu/astrobiology/ and http://www.geology.wisc.edu/facilities/wiscsims/

Please send letter of interest, cv, and names and contact information for 3-5 references to Prof. John Valley, valley@geology.wisc.edu.

Evaluation of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled.