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ExoMars Rosalind Franklin Doctoral Network

Project description

Training for the future of Mars and astrobiology research

Growing interest in Mars and the rise of new exploration missions have revitalised astrobiology, opening crucial opportunities for discovery. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the EXODOCS project will establish a doctoral training programme in planetary exploration and astrobiology. Building on the achievements of the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover mission, the project aims to lay the groundwork for future astrobiology research and Mars missions. EXODOCS will equip doctoral candidates with advanced skills through a multidisciplinary curriculum that combines state-of-the-art research with extensive hands-on experience. The knowledge generated during their training is expected to deepen scientific understanding of the Martian environment and the search for life beyond Earth.

Objective

The ExoMars Rosalind Franklin Doctoral Network (EXODOCS) aims to establish a groundbreaking doctoral training program in planetary exploration and astrobiology, with a strong focus on advancing the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin (ERF) rover mission and laying the groundwork for future Mars and astrobiology missions. The network’s primary purpose is to train a cohort of highly skilled doctoral candidates (DCs) through a multidisciplinary program that combines cutting-edge research with comprehensive training in technical and transferable skills. By fostering strong collaboration between academic institutions, space agencies, and industry leaders, ERFDN ensures that researchers are equipped to address the challenges of planetary exploration while enhancing their career prospects in both academic and non-academic sectors.

EXODOCS offers unique advantages by integrating research objectives with real mission goals. Doctoral candidates will work on projects that directly contribute to understanding the Martian environment, from surface processes and subsurface properties to the detection of biosignatures. The network’s innovative approach leverages the expertise of world-class researchers, advanced analytical tools, and real mission data. Through access to spare flight models, Martian simulants, and terrestrial analogues, the DCs will gain unparalleled hands-on experience, ensuring their contributions have a measurable impact on the ERF mission and beyond.

This doctoral network stands out by addressing gaps in existing training programs, emphasizing cross-sector collaboration, and aligning with EU priorities in planetary science. EXODOCS not only prepares researchers to excel in mission science and operations but also ensures their skills are applicable to the evolving demands of the space sector, fostering European leadership in space exploration.

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Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-DN - HORIZON TMA MSCA Doctoral Networks

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-DN-01

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Coordinator

UNIVERSIDAD DE VALLADOLID
Net EU contribution
€ 564 376,32
Address
PLAZA SANTA CRUZ 8 PALACIO DE SANTA CRUZ
47002 VALLADOLID
Spain
Region
Centro (ES) Castilla y León Valladolid
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
No data

Participants (9)

Partners (17)