About the project
This project will pioneer space-ready electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry to detect biosignatures in the Solar system. Combining spacecraft propulsion electrospray techniques with flight-proven miniaturised mass spectrometers, the project develop cutting edge electrospray mass spectrometry techniques through a unique collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) mission heritage.
Electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) is the go-to technique for evaluating biological samples on Earth, used by tens of thousands of studies and a Nobel prize awarded in 2002. However, even though it is the gold standard method for complex molecule analysis, it has never been flown in space as an instrument to detect complex biosignatures that can indicate habitability on icy worlds (for example Jupiter’s moons). It generally requires atmospheric operation of an electrospray device into a vacuum chamber, which is a difficult setup in space. Moreover, the system is large and complex (typically the size of a large fridge).
Through a unique collaboration we will aim to resolve these issues. Firstly, we will apply electrospray techniques from spacecraft propulsion, using ionic liquids to produce very small ions containing the biological samples, an area in which Dr Charlie Ryan has widely published. Secondly, we will reduce the complexity and size of the mass spectrometer through miniaturisation techniques co-developed by Co-Supervisor Professor Geraint Morgan. Progessor Morgain's mass spectrometers have successfully flown on the European Space Agency Rosetta and Beagle2 space missions, with various patented methods for controlling high voltages in mass spectrometers developed.
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
