Curriculum 4 - Astrobiology, Life Sciences and Space Medicine

The specific training of this curriculum includes:

• the design and development of new technologies and innovative instrumentation for use in space for investigations related to astrobiology and life sciences; 
• the laboratory study related to the synthesis and detection of biomolecules on planetary surfaces to support the implementation of instrumentation aboard space missions; 
• experiments on terrestrial analogs of putative extra-terrestrial habitats: studies of the diversity, adaptability and boundary conditions of life on Earth; 
• observations, theoretical studies and modeling to support future space missions (e.g., climate, habitability, atmospheres of exoplanets);
• studies to understand the mechanisms of biological resilience to space conditions;
• studies on the human factor in deep space exploration and long duration stay; 
• health monitoring, including by peripheral markers of inflammation, and optimization of operational efficiency under extreme conditions;
• studies on physiological adaptations and pathophysiology of deconditioning of various organs and apparatuses of the human body, with attention to immunosenescence; 
• studies on countermeasures to prevent or mitigate the effects of exposure to hypo and hypergravity, ionizing radiation, isolation, and psychophysical stress;
• design of human-friendly habitats for settlements on the Moon and Mars; 
•  studies on wearable sensorics wearable for monitoring physiological and inflammatory status of astronauts.

Details about funded positions for each Cycle are listed in the Menu.