Sample Return Missions Professors and Supervisors

Ian Garrick-Bethellمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

University of California, Santa CruzUnited States

Ian Garrick-Bethell is a Professor of Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Santa Cruz (2020–present), previously serving as Associate Professor (2016–2020) and Assistant Professor (2010–2016). He is also a Visiting International Scholar at Kyung Hee University , South Korea (2011–2021). His academic training includes a Ph.D. in Planetary Sciences (2009) and M.S. in Aeronautics and Astronautics (2004) from MIT , and a B.A. in Physics (2002) from Wesleyan University . Research Interests: Ian’s work focuses on the early geologic, thermal, and magnetic evolution of the Moon , combining lunar geophysics , planetary magnetism , and space weathering studies. He pioneered low-cost mission concepts like NanoSWARM , which uses Cubesats for high-altitude magnetic field measurements. His research group investigates lunar magnetic anomalies , Swirl structures , and impact crater dynamics through modeling , paleomagnetic analysis , and remote sensing . Publication Trends: His recent work (2024–2020) explores lunar magnetism (Paleomagnetosphere, Swirls), impact crater demagnetization , and space weathering effects . Earlier studies (2019–2007) address lunar shape anomalies , sample return mechanisms , and core dynamo persistence . Physics publications (2006–2003) examine ion trap dynamics and quantum stability . Scientific Awards: 2015 AGU Ronald Greeley Early Career Award 2014 Sloan Fellowship in Physics 2012 Hellman Fellowship 2004 MIT Presidential Fellowship 2002 Phi Beta Kappa Advising: Mentors current graduate students Pranvera Hyseni (M.S.), Jacob Abrahams (Ph.D., co-advised with Francis Nimmo), Megan Kelley (Ph.D.), and Rachell Maxwell (Ph.D.). Former advisees include Michael Nayak (Ph.D., now at AFRL), Doug Hemingway (Ph.D., Miller Fellow at UC Berkeley), and Viranga Perera (M.S., now Ph.D. student at ASU). Labs & Collaborations: Leads a paleomagnetism laboratory at UCSC, collaborating with MIT and the University of Hawaii . His group investigates lunar samples (e.g., Apollo samples, Troctolite 76535) to unravel lunar magnetic history and impact processes .

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Andrew Czajaمشاهده پروفایل

دانشیار

University of CincinnatiUnited States

Andrew Czaja is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geology at the University of Cincinnati, where he has been a faculty member since 2012, rising from Assistant Professor to his current position. His research bridges Earth's ancient history with the search for life beyond our planet, focusing on Precambrian paleobiology, astrobiology, and biogeochemistry. Dr. Czaja earned his B.S. in Environmental Science and Biology from the University of Connecticut in 1998, followed by a Ph.D. in Geology with a concentration in Paleobiology from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2006. His academic journey included postdoctoral research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and lecturing positions at UCLA and California State University, Fullerton. His research investigates the early evolution of life on Earth, with particular focus on the Archean fossil record of South Africa and Australia, the geologic record of microbial metabolic evolution, and Mesoproterozoic terrestrial microbial ecosystems. He specializes in kerogen geochemistry and in situ morphological and geochemical analyses of Precambrian microfossils. His work has increasingly incorporated Mars exploration, particularly through his involvement with the Mars 2020 mission. Dr. Czaja's lab develops advanced analytical techniques for distinguishing true biosignatures from abiotic features in ancient rocks, knowledge directly applicable to the search for life on Mars. Analysis of Dr. Czaja's recent publications reveals a strong focus on Mars exploration and biosignature detection. His work with the Perseverance rover mission centers on analyzing Jezero Crater, an ancient river delta that may contain evidence of past life. His research combines field studies of ancient Earth environments with cutting-edge instrumentation to develop better methods for detecting potential biosignatures on Mars, particularly through the SHERLOC instrument that performs deep ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy. Dr. Czaja has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career, including: Lewis and Clark Field Scholar in Astrobiology (2010) Dissertation Year Fellowship from UCLA (2005) Eugene Waggoner Scholarship for Sustained Academic Achievement (2005) Graduate Research Fellowship from the National Science Foundation (2000-2003) Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher of the Year from the University of Connecticut (1999) Dr. Czaja has secured significant research funding, including multiple NASA and NSF grants totaling over $900,000 in active funding. His current projects include 'Life on an oxidizing planet: Microbial ecosystems of a Neoarchean carbonate platform' (NSF, $311,760), 'Searching for morphological and geochemical biosignatures on Mars to return to Earth' (NASA, $91,027), and participation in the Mars 2020 mission as part of the Participating Scientist Program ($439,000). His work often involves interdisciplinary collaborations with researchers across multiple institutions. Dr. Czaja's laboratory focuses on advanced analytical techniques for studying ancient microfossils and potential biosignatures, including Raman spectroscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and geochemical analyses. His research group works at the intersection of geology, biology, and planetary science, developing methods to distinguish true biosignatures from abiotic features in ancient rocks - knowledge that directly informs the search for life on Mars. His team also conducts fieldwork in Precambrian rock formations in South Africa and Australia that serve as analogs for potential Martian environments.

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Eva L. Schellerمشاهده پروفایل

استادیار

Stanford UniversityUnited States

Eva L. Scheller is an Assistant Professor at Stanford University's Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. She leads the Planetary Chemistry and Spectroscopy group, focusing on spacecraft instrumentation development and analysis of planetary surfaces to understand volatile cycles and habitability. PhD (2022), MS (2020) in Geological and Planetary Sciences from Caltech BSc (2017) in Geosciences from University of Copenhagen Her research integrates laboratory spectroscopy, spacecraft data analysis, and computational modeling to study planetary geochemistry, particularly Mars. Key projects include SHERLOC instrument development, Jezero Crater aqueous alteration studies, and AI-driven spectral dataset analysis. Recent publications highlight her work on Martian water sequestration, sulfate alteration processes, and organic-mineral associations. She is actively recruiting for her new Stanford lab. Heising-Simons 51 Pegasi b Postdoctoral Fellowship

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Marion Nachonمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

Texas A&M UniversityUnited States

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.

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Damien JACOBمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

University of LilleFrance

Damien JACOB is a Professor at the University of Lille in the Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Physics. He serves as Deputy Director of the Materials and Transformations Unit (CNRS UMR 8207) located at the Scientific City campus in Villeneuve d'Ascq, France. His research is centered within the Terrestrial and Planetary Materials team, where he applies advanced electron microscopy techniques to study extraterrestrial materials and planetary processes. Professor JACOB specializes in the microstructural characterization of materials using Transmission Electron Microscopy with expertise in Conventional Convergent Beam Electron Diffraction (CBED), wide angle (LACBED), and precession (PED) techniques. His research focuses on space weathering processes, particularly analyzing samples from asteroid Ryugu returned by the Hayabusa2 mission, as well as Martian meteorites and other extraterrestrial materials. His work bridges planetary science, mineralogy, and advanced materials characterization, providing insights into the formation and evolution of planetary bodies in our solar system. Analysis of Professor JACOB's recent publications reveals a strong focus on the analysis of Ryugu asteroid samples, with particular emphasis on space weathering effects, mineral transformations, and the presence of organic matter. His research employs cutting-edge 4D-STEM techniques and nanoscale vibrational spectroscopy to examine materials at unprecedented resolution. The work spans multiple disciplines including planetary science, meteoritics, materials science, and cosmochemistry, with significant contributions to understanding the surface processes of asteroids and the implications for solar system formation. Deputy Director, Materials and Transformations Unit (CNRS UMR 8207) Member of the Terrestrial and Planetary Materials research team Expert in Transmission Electron Microscopy for planetary materials analysis Professor JACOB has advised numerous doctoral students whose theses focused on microstructural analysis of planetary materials, including Bahae Eddine MOULOUD (2024), Estelle LEDOUX (2021), and Yvan Georges Ngassa Tankeu (2018). His students have gone on to postdoctoral positions at institutions including The University of Utah and careers at organizations such as IBM and EDF. His research is conducted within the well-equipped Materials and Transformations Unit, which includes specialized facilities for electron microscopy and planetary materials analysis.

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Tom Zegaمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

University of ArizonaUnited States

Professor Tom Zega is a faculty member at the University of Arizona’s Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, where he has served since 2011. He directs the Planetary Materials Research Group and holds a primary appointment as Professor, leading federally funded investigations into the origin and evolution of the Solar System’s earliest solids. Education: Ph.D. in Geological Sciences, 2003, Arizona State University Research Focus: Dr. Zega couples ultrahigh-resolution ion- and electron-microscopy with computational thermodynamics to decode the chemical and physical histories of planetary materials. His current work concentrates on: Refractory inclusions—the first solids to condense from the solar nebula Sulfides that record nebular and parent-body processes Samples returned by JAXA’s Hayabusa missions to asteroids Itokawa and Ryugu NASA’s OSIRIS-REx samples from asteroid Bennu Astrobiology, examining organic–mineral associations at the nanometer scale Research Trends: Across his 2019-2025 publications, a clear trajectory emerges from fundamental microanalytical method development (e.g., single-standard quantitative EDS) to high-impact studies of pristine astromaterials. The body of work integrates (1) laboratory shock and irradiation experiments, (2) coordinated isotope-microstructure analyses of presolar grains, and (3) comprehensive petrographic surveys of CI- and CM-like Ryugu samples. Collectively, these studies illuminate nebular fractionation, parent-body hydrothermal alteration, and space-weathering pathways. Scientific Awards & Honors: No named awards are listed in the supplied text. Grants & Leadership PI, NASA Laboratory Analysis of Returned Samples (LARS) – Atomic-scale Analysis of Hayabusa Samples PI, NASA PSEF – The Kuiper-Arizona Laboratory for Astromaterials Analysis PI (with Co-Is K. Muralidharan & V. R. Manga), NASA – Characterizing the Role of Solutes and Defects in Refractory Planetary Materials Co-I, NASA New Frontiers – OSIRIS-REx Mission Co-I, Moore Foundation – Next-generation NanoSIMS for Planetary Materials Laboratory & Team The Planetary Materials Research Group operates the Kuiper-Arizona Laboratory for Astromaterials Analysis, housing FIB-SEM, TEM, and NanoSIMS instrumentation. Current staff scientists include Dr. Jerry Chang and Dr. Ken Domanik; former postdocs Jacob Bernal, Shaofan Che, Pierre Haenecour, Prajkta Mane, and Pierre-Marie Zanetta continue to collaborate on joint publications.

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Edward Youngمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

University of California, Los AngelesUnited States

Edward Young is a Professor at the University of California Los Angeles in the Department of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences. His research focuses on understanding the origins of the solar system by comparing ancient planetary bodies (e.g., the Moon, asteroids) with ongoing star and planet formation in the Galaxy. He utilizes advanced stable isotope laboratory facilities, including the Panorama mass spectrometer, for high-precision isotope analyses. Dr. Young's work spans planetary science, geochemistry, and astrophysics. He investigates the chemistry of rocks, gases, and polluted white dwarf stars to trace solar system evolution. His research includes oxygen isotopic analysis of the Moon (Δ17O), atmospheric nitrogen isotopes (15N15N), and extrasolar planet composition through white dwarf pollution studies. Recent publications highlight his team's contributions to Earth's formation mechanisms, asteroid composition analysis, isotopic tracers for planetary nitrogen, exoplanet oxygen fugacities, and lunar geochemistry. These studies often involve collaborations with international observatories, advanced spectroscopy, and computational modeling. Scientific Awards: AGU Fellow (2021) The Stable Isotope Laboratory at UCLA, led by Dr. Young, develops novel techniques like infrared laser fluorination for silicate analysis and high-precision mass spectrometry. The lab's work has been featured in major press outlets, including Nature, Science, Associated Press, and Popular Mechanics.

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Lucy Berthoudمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

University of BristolUnited Kingdom

Lucy Berthoud is Professor of Space Systems Engineering in the Aerospace Engineering department at the University of Bristol's Faculty of Engineering, with 25 years of experience spanning spacecraft research and industry roles at ESA, NASA Johnson Space Centre, and BAe Space Systems (now Airbus Defence and Space). Her academic foundation includes: Master’s in Mechanical Engineering (with Distinction) from the University of Bristol PhD in Space Physics at Sup’Aero/ONERA (French National Research Organisation) Her research spans microsatellites, interplanetary spacecraft design, Mars sample return missions, planetary protection, active debris removal, and Model-Based Systems Engineering. She pioneered the UK-wide 'Space Universities Network' to advance space engineering pedagogy and delivered high-impact public lectures including a TEDx Bristol talk and 'Is there Life on Mars?'. Her distinguished honors include: National Teaching Fellowship (2019) UoB Faculty of Engineering Teaching Award (2014) Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy Fellowship of the Royal Aeronautical Society She bridges academic rigor with industry relevance through curriculum development in Space Systems and Advanced Space Systems courses, while driving sustainable innovation through cross-disciplinary projects examining Martian dust removal systems and Earth-Mars design synergies.

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