Space chefs needed for simulated Mars mission

Six experienced foodies are needed for the study, through Cornell University and the University of Hawaii-Manoa, which will take place in early 2013.

Instead of actually heading out into space, the chefs will spend 120 days on a simulated Mars base on a Hawaiian lava flow. They’ll suit up in imitation spacesuits, eat regular astronaut food
 and determine which foods work best for life in space, since not many astronaut foods have shelf lives long enough for a real trip to Mars.

The study will mimic a hypothetical three-year mission, with six months travel each way and a two-year stay on the Red Planet.

According to the study’s website, it’s "designed to simulate the living and working experience of astronauts on a real planetary mission and to compare two types of food system – crew-cooked vs. pre-prepared – as thoroughly as possible in the context of a four month Mars analogue mission."

Ideal candidates will have a bachelor's degree in biological or physical sciences, mathematics, computer science or engineering, and must also be "easygoing, without a whole lot of prickles - people who are interested in food, who know how to cook,” says Jean Hunter, Cornell professor of biological and environmental engineering.

If you're interested in cooking up a delicious intergalactic menu, you can apply here until February 29.

Photo: Getty