Kristin Johnson-Finn

Dr. Kristin Johnson-Finn is an Assistant Professor in Chemistry and Chemical Biology with a courtesy appointment in Earth and Environmental Sciences at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. She holds a BS in Chemistry with minors in Geology and Mathematics from Youngstown State University, and a PhD in Chemistry/Organic Geochemistry from Arizona State University.

Her research explores reaction pathways for organic compounds in geologic settings using experimental studies and thermodynamic modeling, with focus areas including hydrothermal chemistry, prebiotic chemistry, and astrobiology. Her work bridges organic geochemistry and planetary science to understand chemical evolution under extreme conditions.

Dr. Johnson-Finn's recent publications demonstrate strong focus on hydrothermal systems, early Earth/Mars environments, and prebiotic chemical evolution. Her experimental work investigates mineral-mediated organic transformations, planetary habitability, and astrobiological education.