Research in Action Seminar
Title: Becoming a NASA Mission PI: From Lab Research to Spaceflight. Abstract: Serving as a principal investigator is a familiar role for many university faculty, typically centered on laboratory- or field-based research supported by grants and contracts. But what does it take to move that research into space—and to lead an entire NASA mission? Being a NASA mission PI is fundamentally different from managing a traditional research project. In this talk, I will discuss pathways for translating academic research into spaceflight opportunities, the responsibilities and expectations of a mission PI, and the cultural, technical, and organizational challenges unique to NASA missions. The goal is to demystify the process and provide practical insights for researchers interested in taking their science beyond Earth.
When
Friday, January 23, 2026 | 12:30 pm - 1:20 pmWhere
Engineering BuildingRoom: ENGR 326
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For Faculty and Grad Students
Event Contact
Name: Matt Jensen
Phone: 435-797-8170
Email: matthew.jensen@usu.edu
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