Astrobiology Chair

Visiting Astrobiology Chair in DC: research and engagement.

Applications and nominations are open for the Baruch S. Blumberg NASA/Library of Congress Chair in Astrobiology.

"Established in the Fall of 2011, the Blumberg Astrobiology Chair is a distinguished senior position at the Library’s Kluge Center.
The incumbent conducts research at the intersection between the science of astrobiology and its humanistic aspects, particularly its societal implications, using the collections and services of the Library. The incumbent is expected to be in residence at the Kluge Center for a period of up to 12 months."

This is a wonderful opportunity for the right person.
The Blumberg Chair provides a year in downtown DC to contemplate astropbiology and its implications. It comes with an office at the absolutely fabulous Kluge Center at the Library of Congress, a generous stipend and a mandate to do some seriously funky stuff.

"The incumbent is also expected to give at least one public presentation in the Washington, D.C. area and to organize workshops, symposia, small conferences or other activities that engage the broader academic community and the public."

The 2011 Blumberg Chair is David Grinspoon, Curator of Astrobiology at the Denver Museum.

The position is unusual in that it is open to scientists, educators, theologian or social scientists and comes with an opportunity to take on some big issues at an interface where academia often has trouble reaching.

"The stipend is $13,500 per month. This is an appointment made by the Librarian of Congress on the recommendation of a selection committee, which considers both applications and nominations. "

Applications and nominations must be postmarked by Saturday, Dec. 1, 2012. Guidelines and forms are available online.