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Portrait of Niki Parenteau in a black dress, light brown sweater, and a black/white scarf.

​Niki Parenteau

Research Scientist

Contents

Email: mary.n.parenteau@nasa.gov

Read more about Dr. Niki Parenteau recieving Star of the Month.

Professional Biography

Dr. Niki Parenteau is a microbiologist and geologist who characterizes the production and preservation of microbial biosignatures in modern analog environments. These biosignatures are relevant to life detection on solar system planetary bodies and exoplanets. In particular, she characterizes volatile biogenic compounds and surface biosignatures associated with photosynthetic metabolisms, and partners with astronomers to assess their detectability, thus “linking the microscope to the telescope.” She has also been involved in instrument development for life detection missions on ocean worlds.

Niki Parenteau in glasses and a dark blue jacket holding a rock while teaching teachers
Teachers participating in Montana State University’s Master of Science in Science Education Summer Teacher Workshop listen as Ames team member Niki Parenteau describes the geomicrobiology of field research sites in Yellowstone National Park.
astrobiology.nasa.gov

Watch below as Dr. Niki Parenteau talks about how she studies microbes on Earth to understand what signs of life (biosignatures) we might see from microbes on exoplanets. Produced by the Pacific Science Center.

Websites

https://ahed.nasa.gov

https://astrobiology.nasa.gov/nai/directory/parenteau-niki