Interstellar Chiral Molecules – from amorphous interstellar ices to evolved planetary systems
Objective: We are seeking a motivated and skilled postdoctoral researcher to join our team at the Institut de Chimie de Nice as part of the ERC Consolidator Grant ICE-EEVOLVE. This ambitious project aims to investigate the origins and evolution of chiral organic molecules in astrophysical environments—from cold interstellar ices to the early stages of planetary systems.
The successful candidate will contribute to experimental studies simulating interstellar ice environments under controlled laboratory conditions, using advanced radiation sources including synchrotrons, lasers, and hydrogen lamps.
Research: The emergence of homochirality—particularly the dominance of left-handed (L-) amino acids in terrestrial biology—remains one of the most compelling questions in origins-of-life research. Meteorites provide evidence that this molecular asymmetry predates Earth’s formation, possibly originating in cold, water-rich ices irradiated by circularly polarized starlight.
In ICE-EEVOLVE , we seek to unravel how chiral organic molecules, trapped in amorphous ice matrices, evolve from molecular clouds through star-forming regions to planetary systems. Laboratory simulations under astrophysically relevant conditions will provide key insights into asymmetric photochemistry and post-irradiation alteration processes.
Key references: i ) Ionizing radiation exposure on Arrokoth shapes a sugar world. PNAS 121, e2320215121 (2024). ii ) Uncovering the chiral bias of meteoritic isovaline through asymmetric photochemistry. Nature Communications 14, 3381 (2023). iii ) Ribose and related sugars from ultraviolet irradiation of interstellar ice analogues. Science 352, 208–212 (2016).
We offer:
- Involvement in a cutting-edge ERC-funded research project in a rapidly developing field
- Access to state-of-the-art equipment and radiation sources including synchrotron radiation facilities
- A dynamic, diverse, and international research environment with advanced training opportunities, embedded in a networked research community at the interface of chemistry, physics, and astronomy
Werequire:
- PhD in Physical Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related discipline Strong hands-on experience with ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems, infrared spectroscopy, cryogenics, and/or molecular beam techniques
- Previous exposure to astrochemistry is a plus
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Motivation to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
Starting date: September 2025
Duration: 12 months, renewable up to 3 years upon mutual agreement
If you’re passionate about exploring fundamental questions in astrochemistry and eager to contribute to a high-impact ERC project, we would love to hear from you.
Applications should be sent to cornelia.meinert@univ-cotedazur.fr (combined as one PDF file), and should include:
(1 ) a cover letter;
(2 ) a CV including your scientific skills, your research experience and a complete list of publications;
(3 ) a 2-page summary of your PhD thesis or previous post-doctoral work
(4 ) contact information for at least 2 referees; recommendation letters should be sent directly to Cornelia Meinert (cornelia.meinert@univ-cotedazur.fr ).