Dr Emma Puranen
Pdra, Astrobiology Ethics
School of Environment, Earth & Ecosystem Sciences
Biography
Professional biography
Emma Johanna Puranen is a Post Doctoral Research Associate in Astrobiology Ethics with AstrobiologyOU at the Open University. Her work bridges the sciences and humanities, addressing questions of sustainability and ethics in humanity's activities in space. Currently she is researching Antarctica as an ethical/legal environmental protection analogue for the future of outer space.
Before coming to Milton Keynes, Emma did a BA with majors in astronomy and history at Swarthmore College, and a PhD with the Centre for Exoplanet Science at the University of St Andrews. Her PhD investigated the portrayal of exoplanet science in science fiction with an eye towards its potential for science communication.
Research interests
Environmental humanities, space ethics, astrobiology analogues, exoplanets, digital humanities, Bayesian networks.
Teaching interests
Teaching experience:
AS1001: Introductory Astronomy, Autumn 2021, 2022, and 2023, University of St Andrews (Tutor)
2021-2023: St Andrews Observatory (Telescope Trainer)
PY4665: First Contact, Autumn 2021, University of St Andrews (Guest Lecturer)
CO4002: The Literary Canon, Spring 2021 & Autumn 2022, University of St Andrews (Guest Lecturer)
Astronomy 1, 2014-2018, Swarthmore College (Assistant Laboratory Instructor)
Impact and engagement
Co-I "Alien Worlds", major exhibit on exoplanets at the Wardlaw Museum, May 2024-January 2025
External collaborations
Member of the Space and Society working group of the Space Academic Network (SPAN)
Member of the European Astrobiology Institute working group on Historical, Philosophical and Societal issues in Astrobiology
Member of SCAR's (Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research) SC-HASS (Standing Committee-Humanities and Social Sciences)
Publications
Book Chapter
Through A Mirror, Earthly: Solaris, Gaia, and the Search for Other Worlds (2022)
