Astrobiology Institute
Research at the Astrobiology Institute focuses on the study of the origin, evolution, and limits of life in the Universe. Through an interdisciplinary approach that combines physics, biology, chemistry, and planetary sciences, the Institute seeks to understand the conditions that enable the emergence and sustainability of life.
Particular emphasis is placed on the study of exoplanets and planetary systems, with the goal of identifying potentially habitable environments. The analysis of data from modern telescopes and space missions contributes to understanding the structure and evolution of planetary atmospheres and the search for signs of life beyond Earth.
At the same time, the Institute’s research examines the chemical and physical evolution of life-related molecules. Through laboratory experiments and computational models, the processes that may have led to the creation of the first biological systems in the early environment of Earth and on other planets are investigated.
A significant field of activity is also the study of extreme environments on Earth, such as hydrothermal vents, polar ecosystems, and deep-sea environments. These ecosystems serve as natural laboratories for understanding the limits of life and provide valuable insights into the potential existence of life on other planetary bodies.
The Institute participates in international research programs and collaborates with universities, research centers, and space agencies worldwide. Through these partnerships, the exchange of knowledge, the development of new research methods, and the contribution to the global effort to understand life in the cosmic environment are promoted.