Marion Nachon

Marion Nachon is an Associate Research Scientist and Lecturer in the Department of Geology and Geophysics at Texas A&M University. She specializes in Planetary Geosciences, focusing on Mars rover missions (Curiosity and Perseverance) and space-analog robotic fieldwork. Her research integrates remote sensing, geochemical analysis, and mission operations to study Martian geology, aqueous environments, and potential biosignatures.

• Education: Ph.D. (2016) in Earth and Planetary Sciences from Université de Nantes, France; M.Sc. (2012) from Université Paris Sud; B.Sc. (2010) from Université Nice Sophia Antipolis.
• Postdoctoral roles at Texas A&M University (2018–current) and University of California Davis (2016–2018).

Her work emphasizes collaboration with NASA missions, including roles as a Participating Scientist for the Mars 2020 Perseverance mission and Science Collaborator for the MSL ChemCam and Mastcam teams. Key research interests include sedimentary processes, diagenetic sulfates, and aeolian systems in Martian contexts.

Recent projects include leading the LASSIE legged rover initiative and PI roles on grants such as the Texas A&M Seed Grant on geobiological data analysis and NASA-funded studies on XRF biosignature screening. Her fieldwork spans Iceland, White Sands, and Mount Hood, simulating Mars exploration techniques.

Publications focus on Martian mineralogy, rover data analysis, and Earth-Mars analog studies. She has advised students in geology and technology integration, and her grants span interdisciplinary collaborations in statistics, psychology, and cognitive sciences.