The MaPLE project, conducted from October 1st, 2021, to January 20th, 2024, achieved significant advances in early Earth geochemical research, starting with the collection of 186 rock samples from the Archean Red Lake area in Canada. These samples, essential for understanding early Earth and used as a Martian analog, were meticulously analyzed to decipher their geochemical signatures. Collaborative efforts with Canadian experts from Lakehead University, laid the foundation for a comprehensive examination of these geological rock samples. Subsequent collaborations, including a fruitful secondment at Geosciences Environment Toulouse (GET) and University of Vigo (Spain), enhanced the project's analytical depth through specialised Fe and P speciation techniques and biogeochemical modelling, enriching my expertise and setting the stage for ongoing and future collaborative research.
Further enhancing the project's technical side, training at the Cohen Geochemistry, University of Leeds, allowed me to master an additional geochemical technique (pyrite extraction), overcoming unexpected challenges and demonstrating the project's adaptability. Concurrently, comprehensive analyses involving ICP-MS and XRD were conducted on selected samples at the Planetary Geology lab at the host institution (Centre for Astrobiology, Spain) and the British Geological Survey (UK), providing in-depth insights into their elemental composition. The project's scope expanded with supplementary analyses at the British Geological Survey (UK), where a wider array of samples underwent advanced geochemical examination, including Rock-Eval Pyrolysis and nitrogen isotope studies.
An important part of the project was the scientific and public outreach. I engaged in a series of activities, presenting at five major science conferences across Europe, which highlighted the project's progress and findings and providing scientific assessment as simposium convener at the Goldschmidt 2023 conference. Based on the significant findings and results, the first manuscript from the MaPLE project is being targeted for submission to a high-impact journal.
Beyond the academic realm, I actively participated in public science events, one of which was the SopaBox Science Spain, where I discussed Mars and conducted experiments for an audience ranging from children to the elderly. I also contributed to organizing the weekly CAB and the fortnightly European Astrobiology Institute Academy seminars. In addition, I served as a mentor in the ABGradE 2023 conference, advising on transferrable skills and grant writing. Additionally, I led and organised a two-day conference for the Centre for Astrobiology's PhD students in both 2022 and 2023 named ‘Keep your uPhDated days’, that featured 40 students presenting orally or via posters. These conferences attracted over 100 attendees each year and it is intended to run on a yearly basis for the benefit and visibility of the PhD students. In both editions, non-technical sessions about science dissemination, mental health and pathways after PhD completion complemented the final program.
The MaPLE project has successfully achieved its objectives, showcasing exceptional time and budget management. It has efficiently met its goals, optimizing resource use and achieving planned milestones. A significant achievement of the MaPLE project is the development of a strong network of both national and international collaborations. These partnerships have not only enriched the project's scope and depth but also fostered a collaborative environment that promises to yield long-term benefits for all parties involved.
