The NASA/Library of Congress Chair in Astrobiology, Exploration, and Scientific Innovation represents an opportunity for high-level scholarship to understand the interface between human society and the scientific exploration of the cosmos. In the spirit of Barry Blumberg, whose life and work spanned multiple disciplines, the Blumberg Program is interested in the concept of exploration broadly defined to include any aspect of space exploration within the parameters of NASA’s mission to “reveal the unknown for the benefit of humankind.” The program is most interested in proposals that consider the philosophical, humanistic, legal, ethical, and policy dimensions of exploration.

The proposal application deadline is Friday, October 15, 2021.

For more information and to apply, click here.

The Chair is in residence at the Kluge Center, in the Library of Congress. The Library is at the heart of serious conversation among scholars and policymakers, and the Kluge Center’s distinctive mission is to bridge the gap between scholarship and the policymaking community. As such, the Blumberg Chair holds a highly visible, public role. The Library is particularly interested in scholars who are able and willing to speak beyond their disciplinary home in a way that is accessible and compelling to a broad audience.

In order to apply for the Blumberg Chair the Library of Congress requests three pieces of information:

  • A complete CV including your contact information and publications.
  • A brief statement of proposed research (up to 1500 words). In your statement, please include one paragraph that explains why the Library of Congress is the appropriate venue for your research and any particular collections you might use.
  • A description of proposed outreach activities (Up to 1000 words).