Alexandra MacDermott

Building connections between disciplines, Alexandra MacDermott explores the intricate world of chirality and its implications for understanding life's origins and existence beyond Earth. As an Associate Professor of Physical Chemistry at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her field. MacDermott earned her doctorate from the prestigious Oxford University, where she honed her focus on the fascinating property of molecules known as chirality, which gives them the unique ability to exist as mirror images of each other. Her research is primarily centered on unraveling the mysteries behind the enantiometric bias observed in nature, a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists for decades. By investigating chirality, MacDermott aims to uncover its potential as a universal signature of life, offering insights into the possibility of life beyond our planet. Her work is at the forefront of astrobiology, bridging the gap between chemistry and the search for extraterrestrial life. MacDermott is the driving force behind the international SETH Consortium, a collaborative effort dedicated to the development of space polarimeters. These advanced instruments are designed to detect extraterrestrial homochirality, a potential indicator of life elsewhere in the universe. Her leadership in this consortium underscores her commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration and discovery. In addition to her work with the SETH Consortium, MacDermott plays a significant role in several high-profile space missions. She is a Co-Investigator on the COSAC experiment, part of the Rosetta mission to Comet Wirtanen, where her expertise in chirality contributes to the mission's objectives. Furthermore, she serves as an Adjunct Scientist on the Beagle 2 Mars Lander, further demonstrating her involvement in groundbreaking research aimed at uncovering the secrets of our solar system. Through her innovative research and collaborative efforts, Alexandra MacDermott continues to make significant contributions to the field of physical chemistry and astrobiology. Her work not only enhances our understanding of chirality and its role in the universe but also inspires future generations of scientists to explore the unknown and seek answers to the profound questions about life and its origins.