The Harvard Origins of Life Initiative is a multi-disciplinary research program at the intersection of biochemistry and planetary astronomy. Our goal is to discover how the initial conditions on planets, including our Earth, determined their biochemistry and life forms. This knowledge will eventually allow targeted studies of planets that might harbor life, including Earth twins. The Initiative is an active, vibrant community of students, faculty and researchers in this exciting new field.

We invite applications for Origins Postdoctoral Fellows who will pursue independent research on topics related to origins of life in collaboration with one or more Harvard faculty members in biochemistry, chemistry, geobiology, planetary science, and astrophysics. For a complete list of Origins team members, labs, and projects: http://origins.harvard.edu/AssocFaculty.html

Application Requirements: Candidates should have received their terminal degree within the 5 years prior to the application date. They should secure the commitment of at least one Harvard faculty member to host their work (a letter of support is required). A CV, a research proposal (3 pages), and a letter of recommendation from a current or former advisor should be sent to Carol Knell (cknell@cfa.harvard.edu) by April 15, 2013. Offers are expected to be made by the end of May, 2013. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The appointment will be for 1 year initially, with opportunity for renewal for up to 2 additional years, contingent upon performance. We offer a competitive compensation and allowance package. For more information on the fellowships, send questions to: cknell@cfa.harvard.edu.

Harvard University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications from women and minorities are strongly encouraged.

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Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunities at Harvard University Origins of Life