MSU researcher receives NASA fellowship

A research associate at Montana State University in Bozeman has been awarded a prestigious NASA fellowship.

MSU says the fellowship will allow Eric Boyd to explore the possibility that living organisms exist in an environment perhaps similar to conditions on Mars.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded Boyd a one-year fellowship, with the possibility of renewal for a second year.

The NASA Astrobiology Institute Fellowship went to four people this year. Applications are accepted from scientists and engineers who hold doctorates, and show exceptional promise and ability.

Boyd, who is from Iowa, received a doctorate in microbiology at MSU in 2007.