Abstract

We live in a molecular universe—one shaped by atoms and molecules cooperating to build complexity, including human life. Among these molecules, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contribute significantly to the chemistry and physics of the cosmos and are thought to have served as templates for the first primordial RNA and DNA. How could such a mechanism occur in the universe? What conditions are required for it to happen? Can we predict it using theoretical models and computer simulations?

Short Bio

Dario Campisi is a postdoc with a PhD in Astronomy from Leiden Observatory in the Netherlands. His work spans astronomy and chemistry, exploring the universe through computer simulations. He helped clarify the role of interstellar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons—molecules thought to initiate life—in hydrogen formation and dust preservation. After research experiences at the University of Chicago, the University of Stuttgart as a Humboldt Fellow, and the University of Perugia, he will study interstellar RNA formation as an AIAS Fellow.

What is an AIAS Seminar?

The AIAS Seminar Series is a session of seminars held by the AIAS fellows, AIAS Visiting or Tandem Fellows or by other speakers proposed by the fellows. In each seminar, a fellow will present and discuss her/his current research and work-in-progress to an interdisciplinary audience for 30 minutes, closing off with 30 minutes for questions, comments and discussion.

All seminars are in-person and held in English. To attend online, please contact Cecilie Horshauge at cecilie@aias.au.dk by 9:00am on the day of the semimar as the latest to request a link.