NASA Seeks Candidates for Astrobiology Task Force by Sept. 29

The NASA Astrobiology Program is now inviting applications for approximately 47 positions on the NASA Decadal Astrobiology Research and Exploration Strategy (DARES) Task Force 2 (TF2). The application deadline is set for **September 29, 2025**, at **11:59 PM EDT**. This initiative aims to gather a diverse group of experts to shape the future of astrobiology research.

TF2 will consist of two Co-Chairs, nine Focus Area Subcommittee Leads, 27 General Members, and nine early-career Executive Secretaries, defined as those currently pursuing graduate degrees or within five years of completing a terminal degree. While NASA Ex-Officio Members will provide programmatic guidance, they will not be part of the 47-member team. The primary role of TF2 will be to draft and finalize the NASA-DARES Strategy, which will synthesize the current state of the field and identify significant technical gaps and scientific questions.

Roles and Responsibilities

The task force will build on findings from the first task force and discussions held during the NASA-DARES RFI Findings Workshop in May 2025. TF2 will focus on nine key areas identified in previous strategies, including the **2015 NASA Astrobiology Strategy** and various decadal surveys by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM).

Participants will also engage with the community to incorporate public feedback and ensure alignment with NASA’s review processes before the final strategy is published, tentatively scheduled for the **AbSciCon** conference in May 2026. Key activities will include:

– Internal virtual meetings for subcommittee discussions via platforms such as Teams or Google Meet.
– Leadership from the Co-Chairs, who will ensure consistency across the Strategy and coordinate efforts with NASA Headquarters and the internal Astrobiology Federation.
– Management of subcommittees by Focus Area Leads, who will oversee writing efforts and represent their areas in community engagement activities.
– Contributions from General Members, who will provide subject-matter expertise for drafting and review processes.
– Support from Executive Secretaries, who will assist with organization and synthesis.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit applications electronically through the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES). Detailed application instructions are available in the document titled “How to Volunteer for Task Force 2,” accessible at the provided NASA link.

Applications should include:

– A two-page biographical sketch detailing the applicant’s relevant professional experience and a bibliography of publications.
– A two-page cover letter outlining interest in and qualifications for the task force, highlighting relevant scientific, technical, and management experience. Candidates wishing to serve as Co-Chairs or Focus Area Leads should specify their interest and justify their suitability for these leadership roles.
– Completion of program-specific questions outlined in Appendix A of the application guide.

For selected participants, the NASA Research and Education Support Services (NRESS) will facilitate support for travel and honorarium, adhering to established contract terms. While self-nominations are welcome, eligibility may vary, especially for non-U.S. based individuals. Civil servants can apply; however, NRESS will not cover travel costs for them.

For any inquiries regarding the application process, candidates can reach out to the organizing committee via email at [email protected]. This email is not for submitting applications, as submissions sent to this address will be disregarded for security purposes.

This initiative represents a significant opportunity for professionals in the field of astrobiology to contribute to critical research efforts that may shape the future of space exploration and our understanding of life beyond Earth.