Job Details

Type: Full-Time
Salary: $78,000 per year (plus $10,000 annual research funds)
Posted: 10/26/2025
Category: Chemistry; Astrobiology; Physics
School: Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department/Area: Origins of Life Initiative

Position Title: Kavli-Laukien Postdoctoral Fellowship

Institution: Harvard University
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA

Position Description

The Harvard Origins of Life Initiative invites applications for the Kavli-Laukien Postdoctoral Fellowship. This prestigious fellowship supports outstanding early-career scientists to pursue innovative, independent research in the rapidly developing fields of origins of life science and astrobiology.

Kavli-Laukien Fellows are expected to become future leaders in this multidisciplinary area, conducting groundbreaking research that bridges scientific disciplines and fosters cross-departmental collaboration at Harvard University.

We welcome applicants with Ph.D. degrees (or those expecting to receive their degree soon) from diverse scientific backgrounds including astrophysics, planetary science, chemistry, and biology.

Applicants should:

• Select a host department and faculty mentor at Harvard.

• Be open to collaborative work across different departments and laboratories.

• Take advantage of opportunities to collaborate with and visit partner institutions within the Origins Federation (origins-federation.com).

Application Instructions

Application Deadline: Friday, December 5, 2025

Applicants must submit the following materials:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

2. Research Statement (maximum 4 pages)

Additionally, applicants should arrange for:

• Three letters of reference to be emailed directly by referees by the deadline.

• Confirmation from a potential Harvard faculty host, who should also send an email of confirmation.

All materials should be emailed to:
📧 kelly.colbourn@cfa.harvard.edu

Position Details

• Start Date: On or about September 1, 2026 (earlier start dates possible)

• Term: One-year appointment, renewable for up to three years, contingent upon performance and funding.

• Compensation:

  • Base salary: $78,000 per year

  • Research funds: $10,000 annually

• Benefits: Comprehensive Harvard Postdoctoral Benefits, including Health and Dental coverage

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, or expected completion by the start date.

Contact Information

Contact Person: Kelly McGlennon, Associate Director
Email: kelly.colbourn@cfa.harvard.edu

For additional information about the Harvard Origins of Life Initiative, please visit:
http://origins.harvard.edu/

Equal Opportunity Statement

Harvard University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.