EXODOCS - ExoMars Rosalind Franklin Doctoral Network

ID Call: HORIZON-MSCA-2024-DN-01 MSCA Doctoral Networks

Sapienza's role in the project: Recipient

Scientific Supervisor for Sapienza: Francesco Piacentini

Department: Physics

Project start date: September 10, 2025

Project end date: September 9, 2025

Abstract:

The ExoMars Rosalind Franklin Doctoral Network (EXODOCS) aims to establish a groundbreaking doctoral training program in planetary exploration and astrobiology, with a strong focus on advancing the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin (ERF) rover mission and laying the groundwork for future Mars and astrobiology missions.

The network’s primary purpose is to train a cohort of highly skilled doctoral candidates (DCs) through a multidisciplinary program that combines cutting-edge research with comprehensive training in technical and transferable skills. By fostering strong collaboration between academic institutions, space agencies, and industry leaders, ERFDN ensures that researchers are equipped to address the challenges of planetary exploration while enhancing their career prospects in both academic and non-academic sectors. EXODOCS offers unique advantages by integrating research objectives with real mission goals.
Doctoral candidates will work on projects that directly contribute to understanding the Martian environment, from surface processes and subsurface properties to the detection of biosignatures. The network’s innovative approach leverages the expertise of world-class researchers, advanced analytical tools, and real mission data. Through access to spare flight models, Martian simulants, and terrestrial analogues, the DCs will gain unparalleled hands-on experience, ensuring their contributions have a measurable impact on the ERF mission and beyond. This doctoral network stands out by addressing gaps in existing training programs, emphasizing cross-sector collaboration, and aligning with EU priorities in planetary science. EXODOCS not only prepares researchers to excel in mission science and operations but also ensures their skills are applicable to the evolving demands of the space sector, fostering European leadership in space exploration.