I just got back from one of the most innovative science conferences targeting early career scientists, also known as, Astrobiology Graduate Student Conference (AbGradCon). As Shawn mentioned earlier AbGradCon is a “closed ecosystem” formed by the future of astrobiology. And heck yes, the future of astrobiology is more than awesome! I can’t wait to see what these bright and ambitious guys will achieve in the future. As one of the statements from the conference goes:

“One of us in this room will discover something really incredible about the universe”

Now, if this doesn’t give you chills, nothing will!

One of the highlights of this year’s AbGradCon was definitely the Research Focus Group Workshop (RFG). RFG is an intense two-day proposal writing workshop and definitely a unique training opportunity for early career astrobiologists. In line with increasing the awesome, NASA HQ’s Michael New came all the way to Ennis, MT to lead a workshop writing proposal training session. It was an extremely helpful workshop. For those who couldn’t make it, here are a few key points by Michael that are worth mentioning:

When writing a proposal:

Do not annoy the reviewer
Do not annoy the reviewer
Do not annoy the reviewer
Develop a focused, well-defined question
Develop a focused argument
Clearly explain why your idea is important for NASA (know your audience)
Make sure your budget is reasonable and thoroughly explained
Follow the guidebook
Acknowledge the pitfalls

Proposal training session by Michael New was followed by a fierce competition. Eight teams, each composed of four bright astrobiologists came up with a relevant idea, wrote a full proposal in less than 24 hours, then reviewed other teams’ proposals, orally presented their ideas and then in a review panel voted for the winner ideas. (Did I say RFG is intense?) The winners and what their proposals were about will soon be announced by the NASA Astrobiology Institute, so stay tuned. And if you ever have a chance to attend a RFG, please do so. It is one of the best things that an early career scientist can experience and you will not regret it!

I will soon write about the highlights of AbGradCon and summarize some of the great work that is being done. For now, I want to gaze at the stars and soak in the memories of another cosmic astrobiology experience.

Here is to aiming high, thinking big and not being afraid of asking bold questions!

Onward and upward, astrobiology community!

-Betül