Supervisor: Prof. Nigel Mason
We are entering a decade in which we have the opportunity to explore many planets of our solar system in new ways. One of the most exciting forthcoming missions is the ESA JUICE (JUpiter ICy moons Explorer) mission to explore the icy moons of Jupiter, two of which (Europa and Ganymede) are considered as having the highest potential for life having been able to emerge in our Solar system outside the Earth. For Europa, the focus is on probing whether the chemistry essential to life, including organic molecules is present and on understanding the formation of surface features and the chemical composition of the non-water-ice material. For Ganymede, and to a lesser extent for Callisto, the aim is to study of the physical properties of the icy crust and how it is influenced by interactions with Jovian magnetosphere.
JUICE is due to be launched in June 2022 with planned arrival at Jovian system in October 2029 allowing the experimental planetary science community an opportunity to provide the necessary core data for the interpretation of the in situ measurements whilst also having the opportunity to highlight key questions to address in the analysis of such data. Furthermore the current JUNO mission has the exciting possibility of performing the flybys of Europa, Ganymede and crucially Io, the volcanic moon that JUICE will not study. Thus, if as is likely, the mission is extended we can expect to have extensive data sets from JUNO with which to compare laboratory data in 2022-2025.
The aim of this PhD is to perform a series of laboratory experiments to characterize spectroscopic signatures of molecular species expected to be found in the icy moons of Jupiter. By performing an integrated set of irradiation experiments the mechanisms for such molecular formation will be explored and the identification of potential biomarkers (and their survivability and transformation on the surface if ejected from subsurface oceans) explored.
This project will involve travel to, and some periods of extended residential stay, at large scale research facilities in Europe and working with JUNO and JUICE team members. Candidates should have a background in physics or chemistry with an interest in laboratory work.
For further details and discussion contact Prof. Nigel Mason (n.j.mason[at]kent.ac.uk).