Laukien Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Harvard Origins of Life Initiative

Applications are once again invited to the Laukien Postdoctoral Fellowship (formerly known as the Kavli-Laukien Fellowship) at the Origins of Life Initiative at Harvard University. The Laukien Fellowship program supports young developing independent scholars to pursue innovative research in the emerging field of origins of life science and astrobiology. It is expected that the Laukien Fellows will be among the future leaders of this multidisciplinary field.

We invite applicants with PhD degrees (or anticipating one) drawn from all diverse science disciplines involved in the Harvard Origins of Life Initiative: from astrophysics and planetary science to chemistry and biology. Applicants are asked to choose a host department and a mentor at Harvard, but are also strongly encouraged to bridge different research labs and departments, across science and campus. The Laukien Fellows will be given the added opportunity (funded and encouraged) to collaborate with and visit groups in sister institutions (https://www.origins-federation.com/).

Applications consisting of a CV and a 4-page research statement are due by Friday, December 11, 2026. Applicants should arrange for three Letters of Reference to be emailed by Friday, December 11, 2026. Applicants should also confirm with their potential host – a Harvard faculty member, and ask them to send a confirmation email.

Applications and letters should be emailed to ajrobinson@fas.harvard.edu

One offer will be made and new appointments should begin on or about September 1, 2027, but earlier starting dates are possible. The position is for one year, renewable for a second and third year, contingent on performance and funding.

Further information about the Harvard Origins of Life Initiative may be found at http://origins.harvard.edu/; please direct any questions on the application process to ajrobinson@fas.harvard.edu

All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, creed, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or national origin. Women and members of minority groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Compensation:  $88000.00 (USD) w/ addition of 10k annual research funds

Included Benefits:  Health, Dental, and Harvard Postdoc Benefits 

Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.