Karena Gill
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Mail code: 6004Campus: Tempe
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Karena Gill's research is situated at the nexus of geobiology, sedimentology, and planetary science, with a particular emphasis on biosignature preservation in sulfate minerals. She investigates fluid inclusions and sedimentary textures to better understand how microbial life may leave behind traces in extreme environments—insights that directly inform NASA’s search for life on Mars and other planetary bodies.
Her academic journey has included roles that blend research, teaching, and outreach. Before joining ASU, she served as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Washington & Lee University, where she was actively involved in student-centered teaching and mentorship. She has also supported planetary science initiatives as a postdoctoral research collaborator for the Mars 2020 mission at West Virginia University.
- PhD, Geology – University of Alabama 2022
- MS, Geology – Auburn University 2017
- BS, Geology/Geological Engineering – Colorado School of Mines 2015
- Investigating biosignature preservation in terrestrial minerals, including fluid inclusions and sedimentary textures, to inform the search for life on Mars and other planetary bodies.
- Integrating geobiology, sedimentology, and planetary science to understand microbial-mineral interactions in extreme environments.
- Collaborating on NASA mission data analysis, including Mars 2020 Perseverance, to support planetary habitability and sample return science.