Christine Escobar
(née Chamberlain)
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Eric Brighton
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Aircraft and Spacecraft Cockpit Design Evaluation
Eric received his BS in Aerospace Engineering from St Louis University in 2004, and his MS in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from CU Boulder in 2011. During undergraduate studies, he supported the US Army Soldier Systems Center conducting research on parachute CFD modeling and flight performance.
Following graduation from St Louis University, Eric commissioned in the US Air Force. Through active duty, reserve, and civil service, he worked as a Flight Test Engineer on the AC-130, C-17, and RQ-4, and completed foreign language training in St Petersburg, Russia. Eric transferred to the US Navy in 2016, where he continues to support flight testing on the C-130 and MQ-4C. He returned to CU in 2017 to pursue a PhD in Bioastronautics focusing on aircraft and spacecraft cockpit design evaluation techniques.
In his free time Eric is an avid St Louis Cardinals baseball and auto racing fan, and a frequent endurance runner. last updated August 2018
Funding: Department of Defense
Mitch Woolever
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Planetary In Situ Resource Utilization for Consumables Replenishment
Mitch is a first year PhD student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences with an emphasis in Bioastronautics at CU Boulder. For his doctoral research he is leveraging ionic liquids (ILs) in the development of an electrochemical process to selectively extract high purity, single element metals and oxygen from regolith simulant. His research is motivated by the need to reduce the risk and cost of human planetary operations and seeks to do so by using in situ resources for onsite manufacturing and replacement of consumables on demand.
Mitch graduated with his B.S. in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Purdue University in 2017 and his M.S. in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from CU Boulder in 2019. During his bachelor’s he investigated scramjet inlet flow control under Dr. Michael Grant. He was also involved in designing, building, and testing a methane/LOX rocket engine. During his master’s he engaged in research related to commercial human spaceflight occupant safety, supported ionic liquid membranes for Mars atmosphere in situ resource utilization applied to autonomous crop production systems, and test article design for a capillary flow, microgravity water lentil growth bed. He also led a team of graduates in a humidity management life support project. In addition to his studies, Mitch has spent four summers interning with Northrop Grumman where he worked on a variety of airbreathing and space systems.
As a Colorado Native, Mitch loves the outdoors and spends his free time hiking, climbing, hunting, backpacking, and stomping pillows on the ski hill. He is also a Wilderness First Responder, a NAUI-certified Advanced SCUBA Diver, and an Eagle Scout. last updated August 2019
Funding: FAA Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation (2018), NASA STTR MarsOasis (2018-2019), NASA STTR µG-LilyPond (2019), NSTRF (2019-present)
Samuel Eshima
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Sam is a first-year Ph.D. student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences focused on Bioastronautics working with Dr. James Nabity. His research is on ECLSS automation, looking into how autonomous systems and Robotics can be leveraged for ECLSS operation as a part of the NASA’s Habitats Optimized for Missions of Exploration (HOME) Project.
Sam was born and raised in Kobe, Japan. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Kanazawa University in 2018. During his undergraduate career, he interned at JAXA and was involved in the development of JAXA’s ECLSS CO2 removal system. He also conducted research for his undergraduate dissertation on the hydrothermal stability of sorbents used for the CO2 removal system for increasing ECLSS maintainability. To expand his knowledge on human spaceflight, Sam came to CU as an MS student in Fall 2018. In 2019, he interned at NASA and supported the research on noise measurement and mitigation technologies for the ISS. In addition, Sam is also a member of the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) and is the National Point of Contact for Japan, hoping to pursue human space exploration through international collaboration.
Being Japanese, Sam enjoys making sushi and playing Mario Cart. He also enjoys hiking, running, orienteering, playing the guitar, and most importantly, drinking beer. last updated November 2019
Funding: NASA Habitats Optimized for Missions of Explorations (HOME), Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) - Graduate Scholarship
Sophie Zaccarine
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Sophia Zaccarine (she/her) is a fifth year PhD Candidate in Bioastronautics, advised by Professor David Klaus. Her research is a part of NASA’s Habitats Optimized for Missions of Exploration (HOME) STRI, where she is investigating quantifiable benefits of integrating emerging technologies into autonomous deep-space human habitats with an emphasis on how fault management can improve nominal operating states. Her research is interdisciplinary and includes functional design, multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA) tools, and qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
She received her dual MS/ME from CU Boulder in Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Management in 2021 and 2022, and completed her undergraduate degree in Engineering Physics with a minor in Applied Mathematics in 2019. She has completed internships with Blue Origin and Sierra Space during her PhD, and two internships and one co-op with NASA Goddard Space Flight Center during her undergraduate. Her past research with NASA encompassed mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering design and applied atmospheric and auroral physics for the VISIONS Sounding Rockets (PI Douglas Rowland). She published a paper in the 2018 proceedings of the IEEE Aerospace Conference on this work and joined the launch team in the northernmost global year-round civilian settlement in Ny-Alesund, Svalbard to launch the VISIONS-2 rockets in December 2018, which housed the CubeSat hardware she helped design during her time at Goddard.
Her research interests include autonomous designs, bioregenerative life support, and aligning sustainability, green energy, and intersectionality with solutions uniquely offered by space travel. In her free time she enjoys reading, baking, spending time with her cats, playing soccer, playing music, and like most of the rest of the lab, running and hiking. last updated September 2023
Funding: CU TA, fall 2019; NASA HOME STRI (2020-present)
Patrick Pischulti
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Patrick is a first year PhD student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado - Boulder working with Dr. David Klaus in Bioastronautics. As part of NASA Habitats optimized for Missions of Exploration Space Technology Research Institute (HOME STRI) his research will focus on the feasible integration of artificial intelligence and smart technologies in space habitats for risk mitigation.
Patrick was born and raised in Augsburg, Germany where he received his IHK certificate (equiv. associate degree) in computer engineering in 2010. After attending the University of Applied Sciences in Augsburg, he transferred to the University of Alabama and graduated with his B.S. in mechanical engineering in 2018. During his undergraduate career, he spent multiple semesters interning at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) working on the informatics subsystem for the next generation spacesuit developing the mechanical design for a new camera and lighting system as well as Human-in-the-Loop testing of augmented-reality Extravehicular Activity (EVA) systems. Additionally, Patrick interned one semester at NASA Langley Research Center conducting research on materials for inflatable habitats.
Having lived for 26 years in Germany, Patrick loves playing soccer and basketball. Being a huge football fan, he is supporting the buffs ever since getting to Boulder, however he is still rooting full heartedly for the Crimson Tide. last updated September 2019
Funding: CU TA, fall, 2019; NASA HOME STRI (2020 – present)
Jacob Kintz
PhD Candidate
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
An Adaptive Autonomous System Informed by Unobtrusive Measures of Trust, Mental Workload, and Situation Awareness for Deep Space Exploration
Jacob is advised by Prof. Torin Clark in the Bioastronautics group. His PhD research focuses on human-autonomy teaming for performance-critical scenarios and predicting human cognitive constructs. Jacob works alongside several other students and faculty in the group through the NASA Habitats Optimized for Missions of Exploration (HOME) Space Technology Research Institute.
Jacob grew up in Apex, North Carolina, and he graduated with a BS in aerospace engineering and a minor in English from NC State University in 2019. He previously interned with TRU Simulation + Training, The Spaceship Company, and MIT Lincoln Laboratory. His technical interests include spaceflight operations, flight test, avionics, and policy.
Jacob enjoys exploring the outdoors around Boulder, skiing and cycling when he can. He loves music, plans to complete his private pilot certificate, and hopes to continue an undergrad intramural basketball winning streak. last updated September 2023
Funding: NASA HOME STRI (2019-Present)
Michael Zero
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Human Performance Characterization
Michael obtained a BS in mechanical engineering with a focus in aerospace engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Prior to his time at CU, he worked in the Space Biosciences Division at NASA Ames Research Center developing ISS payloads. With Dr. David Klaus and Dr. Christine Fanchiang, Michael is investigating whether physiological data from non-invasive wearable sensors can be used to monitor independent and concurrent changes in cognitive and physical workload and human performance. last updated September 2023
Funding: CU TA (2019-2020), NASA VNSCOR HCAAM (2020 – present)
Esther Putman
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Esther Putman is a PhD student advised by Dr. Allison Anderson within the Bioastronautics Department at the University of Colorado Boulder. She graduated with a BS in Biology and a BS in Neuroscience from the University of Kentucky in 2019. She also received a MS in Aerospace Engineering and a ME in Engineering Management from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2021. With a diverse educational background, Esther works on bridging the gap between life sciences and engineering to enable human exploration of space.
Her previous experience includes designing research hardware for the International Space Station at Space Tango and investigating astronaut bone density loss in the Space Life Sciences Training Program at NASA Ames. As a 2018 Brooke Owens Fellow, Esther worked at Vulcan Inc. using satellite earth observations to tackle global challenges like coral reef bleaching and elephant poaching. Her research interests include aerospace medicine, space physiology, astronaut training, and advocating for how access to space benefits life on Earth. Beyond the lab, she enjoys playing piano, taking ballet classes, and spending time outdoors with her dog Apollo. last updated August 2021
Funding: NSF GRFP (2020-present)
Victoria Kravets
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Victoria received her B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech in 2019. While there, she was involved in research teams studying digestion biomechanics, glaucoma treatment, and CAR T-cell cancer immunotherapy. She also interned at NASA’s Glenn Research Center and Medtronic. After graduating, she spent some time working in clinical research at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, GA. As a PhD student with an emphasis in Bioastronautics, she plans to study sensorimotor impairments caused by altered gravity environments. Native to Philadelphia, she enjoys hiking, crafting, game nights, and traveling. last updated August 2021
Funding: NASA Human Research Program (2021-present)
Kieran Smith
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Kieran Smith is a fourth year Ph.D. Student working with Professor Torin Clark. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin in May 2020. While there, his work studied the mechanical properties of chordae tendinae in human heart valves, investigated user experience aboard the Boeing 777X aircraft, and performed thermal analysis for the International Space Station.
Kieran’s Ph.D. work focuses on understanding situation awareness in human operators from a physiological and cognitive perspective. In his free time, he likes to run trails, bike roads, ski uphill, and walk long distances with heavy backpacks. He also enjoys taking photos, slow coffee, and reading books. last updated September 2023
Funding: College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Dean’s Graduate Assistanceship, DARPA SBIR on Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation as a Novel Display Modality (2020-2021), Charles Stark Draper Labs Scholarship (2021-Present), and National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (2021-Present)
Ella Schauss
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Ella Schauss is a first year PhD student working with Dr Allie Anderson developing a mechanical counter pressure garment in order to advance the hybrid spacesuit concept.
Ella received her Bachelor’s degree (Spring 2019) and Master’s degree (Fall 2019) from the Wilson College of Textile at NC State University in Textile Engineering with a concentration in product development. During her time at NC State, Ella worked on a multitude of projects through industry and the university. Her senior project, which was sponsored by Red Bull, was to develop and test materials for the application of wingsuits and BASE jumping suits for Red Bull athletes. Ella has had a variety of experience in industry such as Lean Six Sigma manufacturing, material development, and sensor integration into wearable textiles.
When not in school, Ella can probably be found in the mountains running, climbing, or skiing. A native to North Carolina, she is very excited to be in the wild, wild west, absorbing everything Colorado has to offer. last updated September 2020
Bharath Tata
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Ionic Liquid-Facilitated CO2 Capture for Mars ISRU
Bharath is a second-year graduate student and first-year PhD student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences with an emphasis in Bioastronautics at CU Boulder. He graduated with a B.S.E. in Chemical Engineering from Arizona State University in 2019. During his Bachelor’s, he spent a summer working on Mars ISRU at Kennedy Space Center followed by a year at ETH Zürich in Switzerland conducting research on heterogeneous catalysis for organic reactions.
During his MS work at CU Boulder, his research focused on developing a CO2 capture and atmospheric processing unit for the MarsOasis plant habitat with Dr. James Nabity and Space Lab Technologies, LLC. His PhD, funded by a NASA NSTGRO fellowship, focuses on applying the same separation technology used for CO2 capture in MarsOasis – supported ionic liquid membranes – to a variety of gas separations for lunar ISRU.
As a mountain addict, Bharath is an avid rock and alpine climber. He also enjoys sailing, SCUBA diving, the Phoenix Suns, and organizing with UCW Colorado, the labor union that represents all workers at the University. last updated August 2021
Funding: NASA STTR MarsOasis (2020-2021), NSTGRO (2021-present)
Aaron Allred
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Aaron is a PhD student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado, with a focus in Bioastronautics. Advised by Dr. Torin Clark and funded by a NSTGRO fellowship, his PhD focuses on developing a new space technology leveraging galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) as a countermeasure for motion sickness in astronauts.
Aaron graduated with a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Oklahoma in 2016. His undergraduate research focused mainly on nonlinear dynamics and controls. For the following three years after obtaining his B.S., he worked as a structural engineer for Boeing. During this time, he was responsible for maintaining and repairing the aging US aircraft fleet, such as the B-1B and B-52H, using fracture mechanics and finite element-based models. He also interned with NASA ARC in the Entry Systems and Technology Division. For his MS research at CU, Aaron worked with Dr. Clark on quantifying human vestibular perceptual thresholds.
In his free time, Aaron enjoys exploring the mountains of Colorado. He particularly loves hiking, long distance running, snowboarding, and spending time with his dogs, Jet and Artemis. last updated November 2021
Funding: NSTGRO (2020-Present)
Savannah Buchner
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Savannah is a PhD student advised by Dr. Allie Anderson in Aerospace Engineering with an emphasis in Bioastronautics. Her research is on virtual reality as a training modality for satellite operations. During her MS work at CU Boulder, her research focused on estimating cognitive states for human autonomy teaming. Savannah earned her B.S. in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering from UC Davis in 2019. While there, she was involved in research on self-customizable procedures for long duration astronaut training. She also interned at Lockheed Martin and NASA's Johnson Space Center. In her free time, Savannah loves exploring the outdoors, reading, and amateur astronomy. last updated September 2023
Funding: NASA HOME STRI (2021-2022), SpaceWERX (2022-present)
Taylor Lonner
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Taylor started as a PhD student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at CU Boulder in 2021 with a focus in Bioastronautics. She is advised by Dr. Torin Clark, and her research involves using ground-based paradigms to determine countermeasures for motion sickness in astronauts having undergone gravity transitions.
Taylor received a B.S. in Geophysics and a B.S. in Astrophysics from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2020. Her research at UCLA was focused on developing a laboratory experiment to simulate the fluid dynamics of the outer core of the Earth and other planets using rotating tanks of water. Her love of space exploration and applied physics led her down the path of Aerospace Engineering and Bioastronautics. Her skills working with rapidly rotating tanks of water has transferred well to working with the Human Eccentric Rotator Device (HERD), CU Boulder’s human centrifuge.
In her free time, Taylor enjoys knitting, cooking, video games, horseback riding, and spending time with her dog Ruby Tuesday. last updated September 2022
Funding: NASA Human Research Program (2021-present)
Caroline Austin
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Caroline is a PhD student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder, with a Bioastronautics focus. She is advised by Dr. Torin Clark and is currently working on a project that uses galvanic vestibular stimulation to recreate vestibular illusions experienced by astronauts post spaceflight. She is also an NSF GRFP fellow.
Caroline received her B.S. in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics from the University of Alabama in 2022. While there, she was a member of the Randall Research Scholars Program and conducted undergraduate research in human balance, including work with electrical stimulation/stochastic resonance and stepping thresholds. Caroline is also a Pathways Intern at NASA Glenn Research Center where she has conducted power generation analyses for the ISS and worked on Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome modeling efforts.
Caroline is a Michigan native who enjoys hiking, biking, gymnastics, and embroidery. last updated September 2022
Funding: NASA SBIR w/ Soterix Medical, Inc. (2022-present)
Amrita Singh
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Amrita started as a PhD Student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences (Bioastronautics focus) at CU Boulder in 2022. Her research is focused on lunar habitat simulations and lunar dust mitigation strategies, inspired by the risks posed to crew health and performance by the pervasive and abrasive qualities of lunar dust.
Amrita received her B.S. in Astronautical Engineering and her B.A. in Theatre from the University of Southern California in 2021. She has held a variety of roles in both fields, working in both research and industry positions in astronautics and as a director, actor, designer, and playwright in LA. During her final years of her undergraduate education, Amrita realized her passion for Bioastronautics and embarked on an internship at NASA Ames Research Center, where she developed a model for microbial population growth in the deep space radiation environment (AMMPER).
In her free time, Amrita enjoys reading, sleeping, video games, and (like everyone in Boulder) hiking and climbing. last updated April 2023
Funding: NSF GRFP (2023-present)
Erin Richardson
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Erin is a Bioastronautics PhD student working with Dr. Allie Anderson. She is working on estimating human cognitive states using psychophysiological data to improve human-autonomy teaming for deep space habitats. She completed her undergrad in Engineering Science at the University of Toronto with a major in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in Robotics and Mechatronics.
Erin is passionate about human and robotic space exploration and has had the opportunity to work on projects ranging from asteroid sampling and Mars rovers to studying the effects of microgravity on human telomeres on a parabolic flight. She recently completed her Private Pilot License and represented young Canadians to the UN at Space Generation Congress. Through Space Generation Advisory Council, Erin researches diversity in astronaut selection and enabling access to spaceflight for people with disabilities.
Erin loves snowboarding, hiking, and acting. As a Canadian, her favourite book is Chris Hadfield’s “An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth” and she is a Toronto Maple Leafs fan. last updated March 2023
Funding: NASA HOME STRI (2022-present)
Victoria Hurd
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Vicki is a Bioastronautics PhD student in the Aerospace Engineering Sciences department at CU Boulder. She is advised by Dr. Allison Anderson. Her research involves investigating and improving the utility of ultrasound and wearable medical devices in a spaceflight context. Her current research is a collaboration with Denver Health and CU Anschutz.
Vicki has stuck around Boulder after completing a Bachelors in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in Biomedical Engineering from CU. She graduated in May of 2022. During her undergrad, Vicki was a research assistant for BioServe Space Technologies. In this role, she manufactured and operated life science experiments for the International Space Station and assisted with the manufacture of the current refrigerator used by astronauts to store medicine and fresh food. She has also dabbled in Enceladus astrobiology research for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Vicki has completed similar work on Europa for the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics and is a current Europa Clipper affiliate.
If she's not at the lab, Vicki is probably skiing. Her other hobbies include hiking, dancing, cooking, painting, and trying to get through her endless reading list! last updated March 2023
Nicole Rote
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Nicole started as an AES PhD student in 2023. She is advised by Dr. Torin Clark and funded by the NSF GRFP.
Nicole obtained a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University in 2019. At Purdue, Nicole completed thermal analysis as a part of RETHi (Resilient Extra-Terrestrial Habitat Institute) to support future lunar habitats. Also, during her undergrad, she researched Europa Lander sample acquisition systems at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
After graduating, she worked at Boeing Research & Technology in Loads and Dynamics analysis and testing, supporting efforts from F/A-18 flight testing to spacecraft vibration and shock testing. While at Boeing, she earned a graduate certificate in Astronautical Engineering from the University of Southern California.
In her free time, Nicole loves hanging out with her dog Luna, rock climbing, hiking/mountaineering, building things, and snowboarding. last updated September 2023
Funding: NSF GRFP (2023-present)
Ben Greaves
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Ben (he/him/his) is an Aerospace Engineering PhD student with a focus on Bioastronautics and is also pursuing the Graduate Certificate in Global Engineering from the Mortenson Center. Ben attended the University of Michigan where he received a BSE in Mechanical Engineering, a minor in Astrophysics, and a MEng in Space Engineering. As a graduate student, Ben interned at NASA Kennedy Space Center and NASA Langley Research Center where he developed projects for extraterrestrial food production as well as Martian habitat designs.
He has volunteer experiences as a U.S. Peace Corps agricultural volunteer in The Gambia and conducting relief work in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. In addition to these experiences, Ben spent two years in Abu Dhabi, UAE, engineering off-Earth agricultural systems and exploring their applications for resource-strained terrestrial environments. He is particularly interested in exploring technologies and systems for more efficient agriculture, energy production, and climate-change resiliency.
As a new Colorado resident, Ben enjoys learning about Boulder attractions and activities as well as exploring the outdoors. last updated September 2023
Funding: NASA HOME STRI (2023-present)
Luca Bonarrigo
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Luca (he/him) is a Bioastronautics PhD student in Aerospace Engineering at CU Boulder advised by Dr. Allison Anderson. A Colorado native and second-time Buff, he graduated with his B.S. in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from CU Boulder in May 2023. His current research focuses on measuring the neurophysiological responses to operationally-relevant virtual reality training simulations for long-duration exploration missions.
During his time at CU as an undergraduate, Luca spent several years working in satellite mission operations at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), where he had the chance to serve as technical support in mission control for a rocket launch, before getting involved in bioastronautics research. His senior design project focused on designing a hybrid-reality simulation to train astronauts for lunar surface operations, which sparked his interest in alternative reality solutions to enhance training for deep space.
In his free time, Luca enjoys art, writing, and reading, and is always working on a creative project on the side. He is passionate about STEM outreach and diversity, equity, and inclusion, and also loves exploring the outdoors (whether it be in sun, rain, or snow). last updated September 2023
Funding: NASA HRP (2023-present)
Jamie Voros
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (August 2023)
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Jamie worked with Professor Torin Clark.
She graduated from MIT with Bachelor's degrees in Aerospace Engineering and in Architecture. She went on to work in quantitative finance before coming to CU to pursue a PhD in the Bioastronautics focus area of Aerospace Engineering Sciences.
Being British, Jamie enjoys tea, rowing, cycling, SCUBA and skydiving.
Funding: Office of Naval Research MURI on Multiloop Cybernetic Systems (2020-2023) last updated September 2023
Annika Rollock
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (August 2023)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Annika worked with Professor David Klaus on the Habitats Optimized for Missions of Exploration (HOME) project. Her PhD research focussed on optimizing the infusion of smart technology into habitat design and modeling those interactions.
Annika graduated with a B.S. in aerospace engineering with a minor in creative writing from MIT in 2018, where she rowed at the division I level for four years. Her undergraduate research spanned multiple fields, including human factors, controls, and aerodynamics. For her MS research at CU, Annika worked with Professor Bobby Braun on the aerodynamics of aerocapture for entry, descent, and landing.
During her undergraduate career, Annika spent two summers working at NASA JPL - first with their early concept development team and later on operations for the Juno spacecraft. She also spent one summer at Aurora Flight Sciences working on MDO scripts for flight vehicle optimization and other design tools. In the summer of 2019, Annika was part of the Matthew Isakowitz Fellowship, where she interned at Blue Origin as part of their guidance, navigation, and control team for the New Glenn rocket.
In her free time, Annika loves taking in all that Colorado has to offer. She loves to hike, trail run, bike, snowboard, and rock climb, but she won’t say no to a cozy day for reading. last updated August 2023
Funding: NASA HOME STRI (2020 – 2023)
Sage Sherman
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (July 2023)
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Sage Sherman completed his BS/MS concurrent degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences. His undergraduate research examined how the vestibular system could adapt to artificial gravity via a centrifuge. For his senior project, Sage helped design a test stand and analysis module for hybrid rocket engines, as well as, helped develop a hybrid rocket motor. He also participated in the Colorado Science and Engineering Policy Fellowship.
Sage's MS research explores how auditory perception may be enhanced by white noise due to a phenomenon called stochastic resonance. He also plans on working toward identifying the cochlear mechanism that may be responsible for this occurrence. Sage is a Colorado native that enjoys backpacking, climbing, exploring new locations, and long walks on the beach. last updated August 2023
MC Dorbecker
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2023)
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Space Radiation
MC received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Aerospace Engineering with a focus in Astronautics from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 2015. While there, she was a member of the CubeSat program and was responsible for assembling and testing Poly-Picosatellite Orbital Deployers. She was also the coordinator for the 2015 Annual CubeSat Developers’ Workshop, held on the Cal Poly campus every spring. Her Master’s thesis titled Development of Tools Needed for Radiation Analysis of a CubeSat Deployer Using OLTARIS created a ray-tracing code that reads in CAD files, performs a ray-tracing analysis, and outputs the results in an XML file for use in the radiation analysis tool, OLTARIS. After graduating from Cal Poly, MC worked at SSL in Palo Alto for two years as part of their Space Environments group, where she performed radiation analysis on electronic parts and satellites. She also performed radiation testing on electronic parts using both a Cobalt-60 source as well as the Berkeley 88-Inch Cyclotron.
MC came to CU Boulder in the fall of 2017 to pursue a PhD in Bioastronautics. She was awarded a NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship (NSTRF) in the spring of 2018 for her research proposal titled Modeling Human Performance Degradation from Radiation Exposure and Physiological Responses to Spaceflight During Long-Duration Missions. As a native Californian, she spends her off time trying to find ways to visit the beach, which is only about 1000+ miles away. Not that she’s measuring or anything… She also likes to go running, hiking, and adventuring with her Siberian husky, Apollo. last updated June 2023
Funding: NSTRF (2018)
Kipp Larson
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2023)
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Spacesuit Thermal Control System
Kipp earned a B.S. degree in Physics and Philosophy with a minor in Astrophysics from Renssellaer Polytechnic Institute. He later went on to earn a M.S. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of New Hampshire where he developed the front-end electronics for a gamma-ray imaging spectrometer instrument prototype. After working as a professional ski instructor while at UNH, he went to work for Lockheed Martin at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston as the lead systems engineer and crew trainer for the Human Research Facility instrument rack on the International Space Station. After moving to Boulder to work at Ball Aerospace as the mission operations lead for the NPP and Worldview spacecraft, he earned an M.S. degree in Space Systems Operations Management from Webster University. He later served a brief stint as an adjunct professor at Webster University, where he taught a graduate class in satellite communication, and he also served as an assistant instructor for Johns Hopkins University’s M.S. program in Systems Engineering at Ball. He is currently the Mission Operations Manager (MOM) leading the team that runs NASA’s Kepler/K2 space telescope, which has discovered over 5,000 planets outside our solar system, including the first Earth-sized planets in the habitable zone of their stars.
In 2015 he began pursuing a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Colorado at Boulder focusing in bioastronautics. His current area of research is the use of thermoelectric generators to create power using body heat as part of a space suit thermal control system. He is a senior member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and the Delta Mu Delta Academic Honor Society. In his spare time he enjoys hiking, skiing and wishing he could scuba dive more. A private pilot, he is also building an airplane in his garage. last updated June 2023
CU Bioastronautics faculty, students, and alums at the 2023 NASA Human Research Program Investigators' Workshop held in Galveston, TX.
taken February 2023
Pamela Flores
PhD Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (December 2022)
Advisor: Dr. Luis Zea
Pamela Flores pursued a PhD degree in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology at University of Colorado Boulder. She did her thesis project of space microbiology at Bioserve Space Technologies under the direction of Luis Zea. She has been involved in the Space Biofilm project, planned to launch to the International Space Station on October 2019. In this project she is leading the bacterial work, using Pseudomonas aeruginosa as bacterial strain in ground-based experiments to validate the spaceflight operational and post-flight data analysis protocols in preparation for flight.
Before coming to Boulder, she obtained a BS in Biochemistry and Microbiology from Universidad del Valle de Guatemala (UVG) in 2016. She worked at the Center of Biotechnology of UVG developing a molecular technique to sterilize male mosquitoes as a joint effort with Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to eradicate Malaria. She also worked at the Center of Health Studies of UVG developing and validating a strategy for rural areas to screen for Chagas disease in newborns. She did an internship at Institut des Sciences Moléculaires d'Orsay in Paris, to learn microscopy techniques and nanoparticle characterization.
In her free time, Pamela loves to dance, paint in oleo, watch movies, and cook. In the time she has been in Boulder she discovered she likes hikes and skiing a lot. last updated September 2023
Funding: NASA
Jordan Dixon
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2022)
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Detection and mitigation of pilot spatial disorientation
Jordan earned a B.S. degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Kansas including a final semester at Delft University of Technology in the Aerospace and Biomechanical Engineering departments. His undergrad research included design, manufacturing and assembly of composite structures to house ice-mapping radar arrays, studying effects of bias-adaptive haptic feedback in the automotive domain, determining efficacy of pilots with multisensory cueing during tracking tasks, and performing flight test operations for the Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets. He went on to earn a M.S. degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder, completing research studies focused on human adaptation and performance in extreme environments, such as investigating neurovestibular reinterpretations to changing gravity environments.
After spending a summer with the Disorientation Research Device team at the Naval Medical Research Unit – Dayton developing washout strategies for their aerospace flight simulator, Jordan returned to the University of Colorado Boulder to pursue a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Sciences under Dr. Torin Clark. He received a Charles Stark Draper Laboratory Fellowship to pursue his Ph.D. research aimed at developing methods of detecting spatial disorientation in pilots, in effort to mitigate aviation mishaps and fatalities. Jordan is a member of the Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA), the Life Sciences & Biomedical Engineering Branch (LSBEB) of AsMA, the Aerospace Medicine Student Resident Organization (AMSRO), the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES), and and is a sub-committee member for National Ergonomics Month (NEM). In his free time, he enjoys playing hockey, snowboarding, hiking, and performing trail maintenance – through the Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC), Jordan adopted Section 257 of the CDT near Winter Park, CO. last updated August 2021
Funding: CU SEED grant (2017-2018), The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc (2018-2022)
Young-Young Shen
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2022)
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Spacesuit Wearer Joint Kinematics Estimation
Young-Young's PhD research seeks to develop a magnetometer-free wearable inertial sensor system for observing the detriment incurred by a spacesuit on the wearer's joint kinematics during extravehicular activity (EVA). His work is motivated by the need for in-suit measurements to inform the design of safer spacesuits, which are necessary for preventing astronaut musculoskeletal injuries during highly frequent EVAs on future crewed planetary missions. His research interests include mathematical modeling and simulation, state estimation, and dynamics and control.
Separately, for an independent study, Young-Young worked to develop a particle filter model of human orientation perception under the influence of visual and vestibular cues. He previously held a research assistantship with the CU Integrated Remote and In-Situ Sensing initiative, for which he studied applications of unmanned aircraft systems in subalpine forest ecology.
Young-Young received his Master of Applied Science in aerospace engineering from the University of Toronto in 2015, where he participated in the analysis, development, and testing of attitude determination and control systems for next-generation microsatellites. He completed his undergraduate studies in the Engineering Science program at the University of Toronto, where he majored in aerospace engineering, receiving his Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Science in 2013. In his spare time, Young-Young enjoys working on his personal software projects, playing the violin in the CU Campus Orchestra, and skiing. He is also a NAUI-certified Scuba Diver. last updated May 2017
Funding: Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences (2017 to 2022), NASA Quantifying and Preventing EVA Injury in Exploration Environments Grant NNX17AB11G (2017), CU Integrated Remote and In-Situ Sensing (IRISS) initiative (2016)
Abhishektha Boppana
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2022)
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Abhishektha (Abhi) graduated from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in May 2017 with a BS in Biomedical Engineering. During his undergraduate career, he completed internships at both NASA’s Glenn Research Center (GRC) and NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC). His work at GRC focused on developing finite element-based bone models to study the effect of performing exercise in microgravity. At JSC, he worked on a variety of projects including: validating the use of photogrammetry in spacesuit sizing, parametrically modeling shoulder deformation, and studying spacesuit contact pressure during shoulder movements.
Abhi is currently a PhD student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado, an emphasis in Bioastronautics. For his doctoral research, Abhi is exploring a new methodolgy to design spacesuit footwear using information about shape changes in the foot. This work is motivated by the need to have safer, more comfortable footwear for human spaceflight missions to the Moon and Mars where astronauts will need to walk for long distances to complete their missions. To design better fitting footwear, Abhi is collecting scans of the foot during walking trials, and using the data to predict changes in foot shape through the gait cycle. This data will then be used to design new spacesuit footwear that matches the dynamic shape of the foot.
Outside of academics, Abhi enjoys travelling, eating, and photography. last updated September 2019
Funding: Smead Scholar (2017-2022), NSF GRFP Fellowship (2018-2022)
Kaitlyn Hauber
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2022)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Kait began her Master’s degree at CU in Aerospace Engineering with a focus in Bioastronautics in Fall 2020, where she is currently supported on a grant with the FAA characterizing ECLSS configurations for commercial space flights. Previously, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Aerospace and Astronautical Engineering from Purdue University in May 2020. While at Purdue, Kait was heavily involved in the Society of Women Engineers as well as undergraduate research. Notably, a payload that she worked on in developing a thoracic suction device for microgravity applications flew aboard Blue Origin’s NS-11. Kait has had previous internship experience at Rolls-Royce, Skunkworks, and most recently, Lockheed Martin Space working on ELCSS for the Orion spacecraft. Outside of academics, she is involved in the CU Boulder Racing Team and CU Women’s Rugby. In her free time, she enjoys playing with her dog Laika, baking, photography, hiking, and working on her car. Kait is also currently working towards becoming a certified EMT. last updated May 2021
Funding: FAA Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation (2020/21)
Hunter Hatchell
MS Student
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Hunter is a first year Master's student starting Fall 2020 in Aerospace Engineering focusing in Bioastronautics from Charleston, SC. He graduated with an undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering with a focus in Astronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-DB (ERAU). Hunter has two passions: Human Spaceflight and Leadership. He has gathered experience in both by leading NASA engineering design challenges and being a Resident advisor at his time at ERAU. Hunter has also had many tours as a NASA intern at both NASA Langley and NASA JSC. Currently he is a graduate pathways intern at JSC working with the Exploration Pressure Garment Subsystem (xPGS) team, assisting the design and Human in the Loop testing for the next generation space suit for The Moon, The xEMU.
Outside of school and work, Hunter can be found enjoying coffee, hiking, gaming, beach going, playing Ultimate Frisbee and trying to survive the cold.
Funding: FAA Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation, (Fall 2020), NASA JSC Internship, (Spring 2021)
VOLT = Vehicles Optimized for Lunar Transport
VOLT Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2022)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Team Members: Jessica Knoblock, Nathan Smith, Suood Alnaqbi, Nick Armanino, Denise Buciuman-Coman, Joseph Buescher, Kaitlyn Hauber, Sam Kurtin, Naoki Matsui, Steven Priddy, Jacob Carter, Tanya Mittal, Shivarth Popat, Dean Widhalm last updated October 2022
Matthew Hardy
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Matthew earned a Bachelor’s degree in ME at the University of Kentucky in 2017 and has since earned Master’s degrees from Duke University and Sweden’s KTH Institute of Technology. He has worked at multiple NASA centers, including Langley, MSFC, and KSC. For these centers, he participated in hypersonic ablator experiments, turbopump computational work, and acoustic materials testing. Out of everything he was exposed to, he was most intrigued by KSC’s plant lab. To pursue his interest, Matt went on to work at Utah State University’s research greenhouse. After witnessing the large power demand for plant lighting, Matt pitched an idea to NASA for a more efficient lighting solution in controlled environment agriculture. He was awarded the NSTGRO fellowship and subsequently started his PhD in CU’s bioastronautics program. Matt sees the irony of traveling so far from Kentucky to be a farmer after all. Matt likes furry pets, contact sports, and weightlifting. When the season’s right, he also enjoys boating, hiking, grilling, and chilling. last updated October 2020
Funding: NSTGRO (2020-present)
Kathrine Bretl
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (ABD May 2021) July 2021
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
The development of a conceptual design for short-radius, intermittent centrifugation for spaceflight artificial gravity
Katie received her B.S. in Aeronautics and Astronautics with a minor in Political Science from MIT in February of 2016. In her time at MIT, she completed several semesters of research in various areas including embryonic stem cells, concussion mitigation, supersonic aircraft pressure signature propagation, and most recently, spacesuit design. She has interned at NASA Langley Research Center, NASA Johnson Space Center, NASA Ames Research Center, and SpaceX. In May 2019, Katie received her dual-Masters’ in Aerospace Engineering Sciences and Engineering Management at CU. Passionate about human space exploration, Katie is seeking to improve the feasibility of using artificial gravity as a comprehensive spaceflight countermeasure by investigating the tolerability of fast-spin-rate, short-radius centrifugation. A Wisconsin native, Katie is an avid sports fan (Sko Buffs!) and loves hiking, flying, camping, drinking craft brews, and spending time with her friends and family. last updated August 2021
Funding: NSTRF (2017-2021)
Mike Van Akin
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2020)
Advisor: Dr. Allie Anderson
Mike graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology in May 2018 with a BS in Aerospace Engineering. Mike’s undergraduate research was focused on chemical and electric rocket propulsion. Mike’s research focus is the Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS). Mike plans to investigate the pathophysiology of SANS as well as mitigation strategies for SANS using terrestrial analogues. last updated August 2021
Funding: NSF GRFP (2018-2021)
Neil Banerjee
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2020)
Advisor: Dr. Allie Anderson
Post-Graduation: Human Factors, SpaceX
Originally from Dayton, Ohio, Neil relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a double bachelor’s in computational neuroscience and cinematic arts from the University of Southern California, where he completed an undergraduate thesis on human psychophysical visual thresholds in virtual reality.
Upon arrival at CU Boulder, Neil worked on the development of immersive technologies for spacecraft habitat design evaluation, before accepting a Ph.D. position under Dr. Allison Anderson. His research was funded by the NASA Habitats Optimized for Missions of Explorations (HOME) Space Technology Research Institute and focuses on issues of human trust in autonomous systems. Professionally, Neil has held positions at AFRL, the USC Performance Science Institute, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
In his free time, he can be found with a soccer ball at his feet or a camera in his hands. last updated August 2021
Funding: NASA Habitats Optimized for Missions of Explorations (HOME)
Rachel Rise
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2021)
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Rachel received her BS in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2019 and is currently a first year PhD student at CU working under Torin Clark. As an undergraduate, she helped develop a new test cell that supported the first hot-fire test of a liquid rocket engine at Embry-Riddle. Now, her focus has shifted to bioastronautics and she is working on improving sensory perception and complex task performance using stochastic resonance. She was awarded an NSF-GRFP fellowship which she has deferred until she chooses her doctoral research topic.
Rachel has completed two internships at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). During her first internship, she improved a statistical model that predicts the amount of time a spacecraft spends in safe mode throughout a mission. She used this model to develop tools that overlay the model’s predictions with mission operations profiles to help inform propellant margins and optimize trajectories. During her second internship, she generated new requirements and a mechanical characterization test plan for a component of the Europa Clipper spacecraft and revised payload documentation to include fault protection information.
Outside of school, Rachel enjoys staying active through hiking, biking, backpacking, skiing, rowing, and playing volleyball. When she isn’t on the move, she can be found making art and petting other people’s dogs. She holds her private glider rating and is excited to catch the lift over the front range, acknowledging that climbing isn’t the only way to conquer a 14’er. last updated August 2021
Funding: College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Dean's Graduate Fellowship (2019-2020), NSF GRFP (awarded 2019, deferred until further notice)
Carlos Pinedo
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2021)
Advisor: Dr. Torin Clark
Carlos is a Major and a test pilot in the United States Air Force. He received his B.S and M.S. in Aeronautics and Astronautics from MIT in 2005. During his time at MIT he completed internships and fellowships at NASA Armstrong, NASA Langley, and Caltech. His undergraduate research culminated in a thesis studying the aerodynamic benefits of unmanned aerial vehicle formation flying. His M.S. thesis focused on the effects of a combined 3D auditory/visual cueing system on visual target detection using a helmet-mounted display.
Upon graduating from MIT, he commissioned into the Air Force and attended pilot training at Whiting Field, FL and Vance AFB, OK. Following pilot training Carlos was assigned to Dyess AFB, TX where he flew the B-1 in three deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2013, Carlos was selected to attend USAF Test Pilot School completing a M.S. in Flight Test Engineering. His M.S. thesis included a comparison of flight control input methods for aerodynamic parameter estimation for hypersonic vehicles. As a test pilot, Carlos has over 2700 flight hours in 30 unique aircraft. Prior to arriving at CU Boulder, he taught multi-engine flight test techniques at the USAF Test Pilot School. As an avid flyer with a passion for manned spaceflight, his interests are in space human factors, cockpit design, and interfaces for pilots in complex tasks. A native of California, he enjoys all beach related activities, hiking, soccer, traveling, and spending time with his two dogs. last updated August 2021
Katya Arquilla
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2021)
Advisor: Dr. Allie Anderson
Post-Graduation: Postdoctoral Associate in MIT AeroAstro
Wearable sensor systems
Katya Arquilla earned her Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics at Rice University in Houston, TX in May 2014. During her time at Rice, her research focused on the detection of exoplanets through the use of stellar spectroscopy working with Professor Christopher Johns-Krull. After graduating in 2014, Katya taught math and physics to middle and high school students in Houston, earning her teaching certification during her first year. In Fall 2016, Katya began a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences with a focus in Bioastronautics. During the 2016-2017 academic year, she participated in the X-Hab graduate project titled Cabin Atmosphere Revitalization through Ionic Liquids (CARIL) as Project Manager. She also worked as a teaching assistant for the undergraduate aerospace courses Thermodynamics/Aerodynamics and Attitude Dynamics/Orbital Mechanics.
Katya’s research focus was in wearable sensor systems, working with Professor Allison Anderson and fellow PhD students Young-Young Shen and Abhishektha Boppana on a wearable pressure and motion sensing garment for use within the space suit to work toward injury prevention during extravehicular activity. In May 2018, Katya received her Master’s degree, and in fall 2018 she began her PhD thesis research on the use of wearable sensor systems to discern physiological signals indicative of mental illnesses such as PTSD and depression. This research was performed in conjunction with a group of researchers in the Biomedical Solutions capability at The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory (Cambridge, MA). In her free time, Katya enjoys being outside hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, playing ultimate frisbee and enjoying all the perks of life in Boulder. last updated August 2021
Funding: The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc (2018-2021)
Daniel Case
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (ABD December 2020)
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Integrated Space Radiation Shielding for Extraterrestrial Habitats
At CU, he researched strategies for mitigating space radiation exposure, hoping to help enable long-term human spaceflight beyond low Earth orbit. In 2016, Daniel was awarded a NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship (NSTRF) to facilitate his research, titled Passive Radiation Shielding: Integrating Multilayer and Multipurpose Materials into Space Habitat Design. Daniel earned his M.S. in aerospace engineering sciences from CU –Boulder in May 2016, and he earned his B.A. in physics and philosophy from Northwestern University in June 2011. In the time between his undergraduate and graduate studies, Daniel worked as a business analyst for a financial firm in Chicago, Illinois.
In his free time, Daniel likes to play sports, including basketball, bowling, and golf. He’s also an avid reader, although the list of books that he’d like to read grows more quickly than the list of books that he’s actually read. His philosophical interests include ethics, metaphysics, and existentialism, and he likes to muse about the ways in which philosophy influences public policy. last updated August 2021
Funding: College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Dean’s Fellowship (2014-2015), Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department (2014-2016), NSTRF (2016-2020)
Mike Lotto
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (December 2020)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Paragon Space Development Corporation
In Sutu Resource Utilization for Spacecraft Atmosphere Revitilization
Mike Lotto completed his concurrent Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado-Boulder in May of 2015. For his doctoral research, he was assessing the feasibility of using co-electrolysis with room temperature ionic liquids to produce methane and oxygen for Mars in-situ resource utilization.
During his undergraduate career, Mike was a co-op at NASA Johnson Space Center, where he primarily worked in the Mission Operations Directorate in support of the International Space Station program. He also interned with the Dream Chaser development team at Sierra Nevada Corporation. Under the guidance of Dr. Klaus, he was lucky enough to propose and conduct research on NASA’s “Weightless Wonder,” characterizing free convection in reduced gravity environments. After his Master's, he worked for a year as a Graduate Research Assistant for BioServe Space Technologies, where he developed biotech payloads for research on the International Space Station. In his spare time, Mike enjoys backpacking, photography, and running. He is also a PADI-certified Rescue Diver, a B-licensed skydiver, and a licensed amateur radio operator. last updated August 2021
Funding: NASA STTR Freezable Heat Exchanger 2015, BioServe Space Technologies (2015-2016),NSTRF (2016-2020)
Rylee Schauer
Masters Student
Advisor: Dr. Luis Zea
Rylee Schauer holds a B.S in Chemical and Biological Engineering from University of Colorado, Boulder with a minor in Biomedical Engineering. She is currently pursuing a M.S. in Aerospace Engineering with a focus in Bioastronautics at CU Boulder. Rylee leads the fungal laboratory work of the NASA-funded "Space Biofilms" project, performing ground tests with Penicillium Rubens to determine the spaceflight experimental protocol and preparing for launch to the ISS. She is also working with BioServe to develop science payload hardware for various other science teams.
In her free time Rylee enjoys knitting, snowboarding and playing increasingly elaborate board games with friends. last updated September 2019
Funding: NASA 2018-Present
Heather Hava
PhD Student
Advisor: Dr. Nikolaus Correll, CU Computer Science Dept.
Improving Habitability, Mood & Diet through Bioregenerative Food Systems
Funding: NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship (NSTRF), 2012-present last updated September 2012
Emily Matula
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (ABD May 2019) July 2019
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Post-Graduation: ISS Flight Controller, NASA JSC
Biologically-based Spacecraft Thermal Control and Atmosphere Revitalization
Emily Matula earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (May 2012) and her Master’s of Engineering in Space Engineering (May 2014) from the University of Michigan. Her undergrad research included designing and prototyping training devices for minimally invasive surgery in resource-limited settings. In graduate school, she completed thermal models of the lifecycle of a CubeSat and extendable boom system in ANSYS, and was an instructor for a robotics design and manufacturing course in the Mechanical Engineering department. Through her graduate and undergraduate career she has completed various internships with companies in the space field, including Ball Aerospace, the Boeing Company, and NASA. While with the Boeing Company, she was able to support the Space Launch System (SLS) by conducting risk analysis of their thermal protection system (TPS), and assist with the development of manufacturing process plans for all drilling on the vehicle. At NASA, she developed and prototyped hardware to conduct medical experiments on the International Space Station.
She came to CU in the Fall 2014 to pursue her Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Sciences with a focus in Bioastronautics. In the spring of 2015, Emily was awarded the NASA Space Technology Fellowship (NSTRF) to execute her research, titled Characterizing Biological Closed-Loop Life Support Systems for Thermal Control and Revitalization of Spacecraft Cabin Environments. Outside of school, her interests include boxing, camping, and completing her own auto repairs. last updated November 2016
Funding: College of Engineering Dean’s Assistantship (2014-2015), College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Dean’s Fellowship (2014-2015), NSTRF (2015-2019)
Arthur Barriault
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2019)
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Post-Graduation: Space Operations Engineer, SpaceX
CU SHEDS - Crewed and Uncrewed Semi-Autonomous Habitat for the Exploration of Deep Space
CU SHEDS Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2021)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Team Members: Marta Stepanyuk, Aaron Stirk, Suood Alnaqbi, Nick Armanino, Denise Buciuman-Coman, Joseph Buescher, Kaitlyn Hauber, Jessica Knoblock, Sam Kurtin, Naoki Matsui, Steven Priddy, Nathan Smith last updated October 2022
CU SHEDS Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2021)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Team Members: Rydell Stottlemyer, Colin Claytor, Kaitlyn Olson, Conner McLeod, Sam Schrup, Alex Liem, Marta Stepanyuk, Aaron Stirk, Neil Banerjee last updated October 2022
TALOS = The Artemis Lunar Operations System
TALOS Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2020)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Team Members: Sid Bhilare, Colin Claytor, Samuel Eshima, Alex Liem, Connor McLeod, Kaitlyn Olson, Samuel Schrup, Josh Segall, Rydell Stottlemyer, Benjamin Wexler last updated October 2022
TALOS Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2020)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Team Members: Sid Bhilare, Anahid Blaisdell, Brendon Bourgea, Brian Claytor, Greg Frank, Luisa Gomes, Dylan Martin, Sam Piper, Rylee Schauer, Logan Thompson, Bailey Topp last updated October 2022
TALOS Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2019)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Team Members: Brendon Bourgea, Mike Van Akin, Dylan Martin, Greg Frank, Eric Bergman, Logan Thompson, Rylee Schauer, Anahid Blaisdell, Luisa Gomes, Jonathan Hamilton, Bailey Topp, Sam Piper last updated October 2022
CU Bioastronautics faculty, students and alums at the 49th Annual International Conference on Environmental Systems (ICES) held in Boston, MA
taken July 2019
ALEXSYS Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2019)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Advanced Lunar EXploration SYStem
Team Members: Tyler Kilambi, Darren Bruner, Mike Van Akin, Christopher Brown, Jonathan Hamilton, Matt Bair, Amber Bishop, Ted Zuzula, Nick Fansler, Michael Zero, Sarah Hicken last updated October 2022
Roger Huerta
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2019)
Advisor: Dr. Allison Anderson
Roger Huerta received a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering at the Universitat de Barcelona, Catalonia, in July 2017. During his time in the UB, he did an internship in the Immunobiology department as well as in the Robotics & Automatization one. However, his main undergrad research was done in the Radiofrequencies & Microwaves department, where he was focused on designing, testing and characterizing optimized antennas for in and on body applications, so they could be integrated into Wireless Body Networks. There, using RFiD and PiFA technologies, he developed a new product that could help the hospitals and emergency rooms track all their patients and staff in a wireless and autonomous way. His final semester he joined the Erasmus+ program and went to the Politecnico di Torino, Italy, to finish his undergrad studies.
Currently, Roger's research focus is in the study and development of Mechanical Counter-Pressure (MCP) technologies for spacesuits, working with Professor Allison Anderson. Among all spacesuit parts, he is focused on the development of a new MCP spacesuit glove, with the final intention of integrating it into a hybrid spacesuit. Outside of academics, he enjoys reading, traveling, climbing and hiking through the Flatirons, which reminds him of his beloved Pyrenees. last updated August 2018
MLI Heat Leak Characterization Testing
(Fall 2018)
Advisor: Dr. Jim Nabity
Team Members: (from L to R) Zachary Reynolds, Prof. Nabity (advisor), Ray Pitts, Andrew Mezich, Nicholas Wiemelt, Eric Bergman, Samuel Eshima, Joseph Schueller, Vikina Martinez last updated December 2018
PEGASYS Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2018)
Project Advisor: Col. Jim Voss
Precision Entry to Ground Approach SYStem (Mars Lander)
Team Members: Amber Bishop, Nick Fansler, Tyler Kilambi, Ted Zuzula, Darren Bruner, Thomas Pearson, Sarosh Hussain, Zach Fester, Akileswaran Chinnasamy, Michael Zero, Mario Maggio, Matt Bair, Christopher Brown, Jake Tarnoff, Sarah Hicken last updated October 2022
Thomas Ruck
Visiting Student
Project Advisor: Dr. Tobias Niederwieser, University of Colorado, Boulder
Thesis Advisor: Daniel Pütz, M.Sc., Technical University of Munich
Dynamic simulation of algal photobioreactors in spaceflight life support systems
Thomas earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering from TU Munich in Germany and continued following his interests by enrolling in a Master’s program. For his final thesis he was a visiting researcher at CU Boulder from July to November 2018 in order to do research on the use of algae in photobioreactors as a part of a biological life support system. He collaborated with Dr. Tobias Niederwieser, who had been doing research on algal spaceflight applications for several years. Thomas developed a simulation model of algal growth that dynamically reacts to changing environmental influences in a spacecraft cabin. This model is integrated in the VHAB simulation framework, which has been developed at TU Munich since 2006, and is able to predict the ability of a photobioreactor to revitalize air and process urine in a spacecraft cabin.
Thomas' previous research focused on the simulation of spaceflight life support systems and dynamically allocating crew tasks in a spacecraft. He helped develop a shape memory alloy based solar panel hold down and release mechanism for nano-satellites. He also co-founded and, for 1.5 years, co-led TU Munich’s Hyperloop student-team, which has so far won all three SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competitions. He gained work experience in the field of 3d printing and did an internship at the European Space Agency’s ISS Columbus Control Center. In his free time he loves to snowboard, explore the mountains while hiking and to go sailing. last updated December 2018
Tobias Niederwieser
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (December 2018)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Research Associate, BioServe Space Technologies
Analysis of Factors Affecting the Implementation of an Algal Photobioreactor into a Spacecraft Life Support System
As part of his doctoral studies Tobias Niederwieser is evaluating bioregenerative life support system technologies using algae for air revitalization, as well as for waste water recycling and food production. In order to assess the feasibility of this technology he is specifically looking at novel photobioreactor designs using immobilized growth as well as the effect of altered pressure and gravity on algal cells. By combining biology and technology he hopes to contribute to self-sustaining life support systems on long term human spaceflight missions.
Previously, Tobias earned his Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering from TU Munich, Germany in 2013 and his Master’s degree from CU Boulder in 2015. In parallel, Tobias works as a research assistant at BioServe Space Technologies, where he helps to design, build and test payloads for scientific research onboard the International Space Station (ISS). Examples include a sensor module for recording the atmospheric conditions within a spacecraft (EDCB), a physicochemical life support system for the transport of rodents to and from the ISS (AEM-E) and an incubator capable of precisely controlling the temperature for bacterial growth (SABL). He also successfully participated multiple times in NASA's RASC-AL competition, designing futuristic concepts for manned habitats. In his free time he enjoys hiking, traveling, as well as skiing and takes use of his certifications as tennis trainer and private pilot. last updated December 2018
Funding: BioServe (2013-present), PhD Fellowship from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation (Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes) (2016)
Jan Junker
Visiting Student
MS TUM November 2018
Project Advisor: Prof. David Klaus, University of Colorado Boulder
Thesis Advisor: Matthias Killian, Technical University of Munich
Parameteric Analysis of Internal Heat Paths for Variable Emissivity Spacesuits
Jan Junker was a visiting scholar at CU Boulder from March to September 2018 to work on his M.S. thesis. His work continued the evaluation of a novel thermal control scheme for spacesuits using variable emissivity radiators. Previous studies by Jonathan Metts and Chris Massina had focused on the architecture's overall radiative capabilities and possible control schemes, while Jan's work has turned the focus inward to the analysis of the internal heat path capabilities within both gas pressure and mechanical counterpressure suits.
Jan received his B.S. in Engineering Sciences from the Technical University of Munich, and has continued his studies of aerospace engineering in TUM's Mechanical Engineering & Management M.S. program. Focusing on the thermal and systems engineering aspects of spacecraft development for human spaceflight and exploration, Jan's research topics have ranged from parametric sensor analysis of visually aided lunar landings to the thermal design of ESA's LUVMI lunar rover. From 2016 to 2018, Jan was also a part-time working student in the thermal engineering department at OHB Systems, where he worked on the thermal design of the PLATO satellite. Outside of his studies and work, Jan likes to go snowboarding, hiking, camping, sailing, and motorcycling. last updated November 2018
Thomas Roselli
Visiting Student
Project Advisor: Dr. Alex Hoehn (BioServe)
MS Thesis Advisor: Prof. Ulrich Walter (TUM)
Thomas Roselli completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in 2016 and is currently pursuing his Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, also at TUM. As part of his research for his Master’s Thesis, Thomas is working at BioServe characterizing the thermal gradients and developing a thermal model to predict the temperature of experiments incubated inside the Space Automated Bioproduct Lab (SABL), currently onboard the ISS.
His previous research through his undergraduate and graduate career include creating a dynamic, virtual model of a spacesuit water cooling unit and designing a sensor board for logging of environmental factors during plant growth, as well as an internship at the German Aerospace Center researching communication architectures for a future manned mission to Mars.
In his spare time, Thomas likes boxing, Sunday barbecues, and exploring the mountains with his newfound passion for hiking. last updated November 2018
Bioastronautics Research Group
(Fall 2018)
taken September 2018
Phillip Hartmüller
Visiting Student
Project Advisor: Dr. Alexander Hoehn
MS Advisor: Prof Ulrich Walter
As a part of his master’s thesis at Technical University in Munich Philipp is a research scholar at CU from April to October 2018. The subject of his studies is the development of a miniaturized freeze dryer for deep space applications to process water samples, for instance on board of a future lander mission to Jupiter’s moon Europa.
Previously he earned his bachelor’s degree from Technical University in Munich and worked as an intern at SpaceTech, a spacecraft manufacturer at lake Constance, with the focus of thermal design and testing. He is interested in satellite design and human spaceflight. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, skiing and biking. last updated August 2018
Jordan Holquist
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Fulbright Scholarship, Technical University of Munich, Germany
Direct Generation of Oxygen via Electrocatalytic Reduction of Carbon Dioxide in an Ionic Liquid
Jordan Holquist received his B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in May of 2012, and his M.S. in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) in May of 2014. He was awarded a NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship (NSTRF) in the Fall of 2014 to focus his Ph.D. research at CU Boulder on the “Direct Generation of Oxygen via Electrocatalytic Reduction of Carbon Dioxide in an Ionic Liquid.”
With a keen interest in environmental control and life support system (ECLSS) technology, Jordan’s previous research at CU Boulder has been in the areas of thermal management (a self-regulating freezable heat exchanger for spacecraft thermal control) and air revitalization technologies (a potassium superoxide-based, passively regulated air revitalization system). He has been involved in NASA’s X-Hab project at CU Boulder, focusing on robotic gardening and space-based greenhouses in previous years; currently acting as a student advisor in the project’s third year. He also consults for an on-going project to develop an ECLSS technology test facility at CU Boulder.
Jordan has held internships at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (Propulsion Academy), NASA Johnson Space Center (Career Exploration Program), and Oceaneering Space Systems. He was a founding member of Illinois Robotics in Space at UIUC and led the club to compete in two years of NASA’s Robotic Mining Competition at Kennedy Space Center. He has had personal experience in microgravity, having flown aboard a reduced gravity aircraft to conduct human factors tests with tablet computers. Jordan has also participated on teams for multiple space system and mission design competitions (AIAA 2012, RASC-AL 2013), receiving awards in both. In his free time, Jordan is an avid climber and hiker; he is also certified as a wilderness first responder and as a SCUBA diver. last updated August 2018
Funding: NASA JSC CEP (2013), NASA STTR (2013-2014), NSTRF (2014-2018)
Jose Maria Mabres
Visiting Student
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Jose Maria Mabres (Visiting Scholar, Spring 2018) received his BS in Industrial Engineering from the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, in Barcelona and is currently pursuing his MS in Mechanical Engineering at the same university. As part of his master studies, he developed his Master's thesis with the Bioastronautics group in the Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department of CU Boulder. His research is focused on the computational modeling and the experimental study of a self-regulating freezable heat exchanger for use in human spacecraft thermal control.
As an undergraduate student, Jose worked as an intern calculating and designing heat exchangers for a company in Barcelona. He also worked as an intern in a yogurt factory. In his spare time, Jose enjoys traveling, hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. last updated August 2018
CU Bioastronautics faculty, students and alums at the 48th Annual International Conference on Environmental Systems (ICES) held in Albuquerque, NM
taken July 2018
PEGASYS Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2018)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Team Members: Abhishektha Boppana, Ariel Gebhardt, Amanda Turk, Roger Huerta, CJ Patel, Jacob Tarnoff, Akileswaran Chinnasamy, Melinda Zavala, David Emmert, Grant Vincent, Mike Blascoe, and Arthur Barriault. last updated May 2018
Kimia Seyedmadani
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (2017)
Kimia earned her B.S. in Bioengineering (May 2010) and her M.S. in Biomedical Engineering (Aug 2013) from Arizona State University. Her undergraduate research focused on biomechanics and rehabilitation for upper limb grasping motion which led to a prototype low-cost, off-the-shelf prosthetic. In graduate school, she completed a study on neural recording and signal processing in rats. Her thesis was entitled “Feasibility of Investigating Mineralization Processes Under Simulated Microgravity Free Convectionless Conditions in Unit Gravity Environment with Implication on Bone Mineral Density.” After her M.S., she worked as a design coordinator in Bioengineering Product Design and Global Health Technology Innovation Center, designing more than 50 Class I and Class II medical devices. From 2014-2016, she worked at Boston Scientific as a consultant on development of revolutionary treatments for pancreatic cancer. Meanwhile, her interests in health and exploration led her to become an affiliate of the Man-Vehicle Laboratory at Massachusetts Institute of Technology where she conducted research on the effects of hypergravity on human physiology.
Kimia left the biomedical industry in 2016 to return to graduate school at CU Boulder. She received an MS in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from CU Boulder with an emphasis in Bioastronautics in 2017. In her spare time, she is involving in a variety of outreach and mentorship activities, such as being a technical advisor for Edge of Space and enjoys traveling, fencing, learning new sports and hiking in Colorado. last updated January 2018
Funding: CU Boulder Aerospace Engineering Sciences (AES) Graduate Fellowship (2016), NASA Innovative for Advance Concepts Phase I (2017)
HYbrid Dehumidification and Reclamation Apparatus (HYDRA)
(Fall 2017 and Spring 2018)
Advisor: Dr. Jim Nabity
Project Funding: NASA eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge last updated July 2018
PEGASYS Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2017)
Advisor: Colonel Jim Voss
Team Members: Abhishektha Boppana, Ariel Gebhardt, Amanda Turk, Roger Huerta, CJ Patel, Aaron Ashley, Trevor Mangelson, Melinda Zavala, David Emmert, Grant Vincent, Mike Blascoe, and Arthur Barriault. last updated January 2018
CU Bioastronautics students and faculty at the 47th Annual International Conference on Environmental Systems (ICES) held in Charleston, SC
taken July 2017
Christine Fanchiang
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Founder, The Space Research Company (TSRCo)
Human Spacecraft Operability
Christine founded and currently works full time for The Space Research Company (TSRCo), an aerospace firm primarily focused on developing technologies for advancing human spaceflight. She works on developing small satellites for biology research as well as conducting basic human performance modeling research for spaceflight systems. Christine worked on several space projects starting as an undergrad at MIT, where she helped design and build the power system for a walking Mars rover for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). At Northrop Grumman, she worked alongside the program manager on a national weather satellite system (NPOESS), coordinating the management, engineering and customer teams. During her time at the University of Colorado, she helped establish a graduate project team building remotely-operated robotic gardens for future lunar and Martian greenhouses. Additionally, she worked at BioServe Space Technologies to design, build, and launch payload hardware for various space life science experiments on STS-131, STS-132, STS-133, and STS-135 and later as a Research Assistant with the FAA Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation in analyzing human-rating considerations for future commercial human spaceflight. Her PhD thesis work centered around spacecraft design impacts on astronaut performance and was funded by the NASA Harriet Jenkins Graduate Fellowship. Dr. Jessica Marquez at NASA Ames Research Center served as her technical mentor. Her goal in life is to step foot on the moon. last updated June 2017
Funding: BioServe Space Technologies (2009-2011), FAA Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation (COE for CST) (2011-2013), NASA Harriett G. Jenkins Graduate Fellowship (2013-2016)
CHAMP Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2017)
Project Advisor: Col. Jim Voss
Cis-Lunar Orbital Habitat
Project Funding: Orbital ATK
last updated May 2017
X-Hab / CARIL Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2017)
Project Advisor: Dr. Jim Nabity
Cabin Atmosphere Revitalization through Ionic Liquids (CARIL)
Project Funding: NASA eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge
last updated May 2017
Bioastronautics Research Group
(Spring 2017)
taken February 2017
CHAMP Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2016)
Project Advisor: Col. Jim Voss
Cis-Lunar Orbital Habitat
Project Funding: Orbital ATK
last updated Dec 2016
Kyle Borg
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences May 2016
Project Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Post-Graduation: ISS Flight Controller, NASA JSC
Spacecraft Life Support System Test Facility Development
Kyle Borg received his undergraduate degrees from Austin College, majoring in Physics with a minor in Mathematics. He then obtained a Masters in Atmospheric Sciences from Texas A&M University studying statistical methods for climate research before joining the Navy for three years.
Kyle started attending the University of Colorado Boulder as an M.S. student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences with emphasis in Bioastronautics in the Fall of 2014. He participated in the CU Boulder Our Space Our Future kick-off event; working with an interdisciplinary team of students to create an Augmented Reality demonstration. In July 2015, he took part in the Space Station Design Workshop at the University of Stuttgart in Germany as part of the ECLSS team. He was a member of the LifeLAB graduate project as a Test and Safety Engineer, a Research Assistant and Project Manager. He also helped set up the new Bioastronautics website. last updated May 2016
LifeLAB Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2016)
Project Advisors: Dr. Jim Nabity and Dr. Dave Klaus
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust and CU Engineering Excellence Fund (EEF)
last updated May 2016
CHAMP Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2016)
Project Advisors: Col. Jim Voss, with Joe Tanner and Professors Klaus and Nabity
Cis-Lunar Orbital Habitat
Project Funding: Orbital ATK
last updated May 2016
X-Hab / OASIS Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2016)
Project Advisor: Joe Tanner
Project Funding: NASA eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge
last updated May 2016
Robert Ocampo
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Human Spacecraft Safety
Robert Ocampo began his research career at Haverford College, where he studied leech physiology and swim behavior as a Biology and Psychology double major. While at Haverford, Robert trained as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), participated in division III cross country and track & field, and served as an intern with NASA’s Spaceflight and Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP). After graduating with honors, Robert began work as a Research Technologist at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI). There he studied the effects of motion experience on human vestibular function while developing a human-rated tilt device. This area of research later became the focus of his master’s thesis in Aeronautics and Astronautics at MIT. After completion of his master’s degree in 2008, Robert began training as a private pilot and Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) mechanic, earning all three FAA ratings by 2010. During this time period, Robert also advanced his education in emergency medicine, certifying as a Wilderness EMT, Emergency First Response Instructor, and Rescue SCUBA diver. He also began diving and teaching professionally as a PADI Divemaster at Scuba Fusion dive shop.
In his free time, Robert finds great joy in exploring the world. He has walked, bicycled, and paddled across the United States (thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2004, riding his bicycle from Boston to San Francisco in 2008, and stand-up paddling the entire 700+ mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail in 2016). He has also summited over 600 peaks, including all 50 U.S. state highpoints, all 58 peaks above 14,000’ in Colorado, and all 115 peaks above 4,000’ in the northeastern United States. In addition, Robert has participated in over 250 search and rescue missions as a member of Boulder's Rocky Mountain Rescue Group (RMRG). In 2015, He was awarded Support Member of the year.
In 2011, Robert began his doctoral studies at the University of Colorado Boulder. His Ph.D. thesis, which drew upon work performed at the Sierra Nevada Corporation and with the FAA Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation (COE CST), focused on defining, characterizing, and establishing “safe enough” risk thresholds for human space flight. Between 2014-2017, Robert published several articles related to his Ph.D. research, and successfully defended his thesis in April of 2016. last updated March 2017
Funding: Sierra Nevada Corporation under NASA CCDev2 (2011-12), CCiCap (2012-2014), FAA COE CST (2015-2016)
Chris Massina
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Thermal Systems Branch, NASA JSC
Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Electrochromic Thermal Control Technology Development
Chris Massina received a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University and a Bachelor's Degree in Applied Physics from the University of Northern Iowa. Chris completed his Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado - Boulder while working as a Graduate Research Assistant at BioServe Space Technologies. His research focuses on reducing the impact of extravehicular activity on spacecraft life support systems. His interests include extravehicular activity and life support system technology development. last updated January 2016
Funding: BioServe Space Technologies (2011-2012), NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship (NSTRF) (2012-2016)
Sina Kaufmann
Visiting Student
Practicum Supervisor: Dr. David Klaus with Tobias Niederwieser
Advisor: Dr. Alexander Höhn, TUM
Spacecraft Closed Loop Life Support System Testbed
Sina Kaufmann received her Bachelor of Science in Aviation and Aeronautics from the Technical University of Munich. During her Bachelor’s Program she developed an interest in space science where the topic of her Bachelor Thesis was related to the design and analysis of wheels for extra-planetary rovers. This thesis was carried out at DLR, Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt in Oberpfaffenhofen, near Munich. Sina continued studying Aviation and Aeronautics at TU Munich while working both at the Institute of Carbon Composites and at the Institute of Aeronautics. Concurrently, she developed an interest in light-weight structures and held an internship where she learned to fabricate carbon composite materials at BMW in Munich. Sina plans to complete her Master studies by conducting her thesis with the Bioastronautics group in the Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department of CU Boulder. Outside of school her interests are hiking, skiing and other outdoor activities. last updated April 2016
Funding: PROMOS scholarship
CHAMP Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2015)
Project Advisors: Col. Jim Voss, with Professors Klaus and Nabity
Cis-Lunar Orbital Habitat
Project Funding: Orbital ATK
last updated December 2015
LifeLAB Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2015)
Project Advisors: Dr. Jim Nabity and Dr. Dave Klaus
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust and CU Engineering Excellence Fund (EEF)
last updated December 2015
Bioastronautics Research Group
(Spring 2015)
taken May 2015
LifeLAB Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2015)
Project Advisors: Dr. Dave Klaus and Dr. Jim Nabity
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust and CU Engineering Excellence Fund (EEF)
last updated May 2015
HL-20 Spacecraft Cockpit Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2015)
Project Advisor: Col. Jim Voss
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
last updated May 2015
X-Hab / OASIS Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2015)
Project Advisor: Joe Tanner
Project Funding: NASA eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge
last updated May 2015
Matthew Milanese
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2015)
Advisor: Dr. James Nabity
Post-Graduation: ISS Flight Controller, NASA JSC
ECLSS Technology and Testing Infrastructure Development
Matthew Milanese received his undergraduate degrees from West Virginia University (WVU), majoring in both Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. While at WVU he worked in the Flight Control Systems Laboratory on construction of a mobile pilot and research station, as well as new research aircraft. He spent some time after graduation as an intern at Applied Defense Solutions, primarily interfacing custom satellite simulation software with a telemetry and command server.
In the Spring 2014 semester, Matthew began attending the University of Colorado Boulder as an M.S. student in Aerospace Engineering Sciences with emphasis in Bioastronautics. As a research assistant, he has conducted experiments of a greywater reclamation system via ozone oxidation reaction, and a passive thermal management system with a self-regulating freezable heat exchanger. Matthew has been part of the LifeLAB graduate projects team, filling the roles of Software Engineer, Chief Financial Officer, and most recently Project Manager. He was also a member on the CU team participating in NASA’s RASC-AL student competition that won 1st place at the 2014 forum in Cocoa Beach, FL. last updated May 2015
Funding: NASA STTR 2014-15
Luis Zea
Advisors: Dr. David Klaus and Dr. Louis Stodieck
Post-Graduation: Research Associate, BioServe (2015-18), Assistant Research Professor, CU AES
Bacterial Susceptibility to Antibiotics in Microgravity
Luis Zea began pursuing his Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering with emphasis in Bioastronautics at CU Boulder in the Fall of 2010. His doctoral thesis focuses on bacterial susceptibility to antibiotics and utilizing microgravity as a novel environment to investigate it. He invests time on STEM outreach but also enjoys talking to the public on the benefits of human space exploration. Luis started his career with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the Universidad del Valle de Guatemala. He then worked at ExxonMobil for two years. He studied German in Munich in 2006 and later that year started a M.S. in Aerospace Engineering – Thermofluids Track – at the University of Central Florida. There, Luis was involved with the design and manufacture of a cubesat that won 1st place in the Florida University Satellite program as well as with the Mars Desert Research Station, where he was an engineer for Crew 65. He also conducted research at the Florida Space Institute on gas kinetics on multi-phase flow. After graduation, he continued working for UCF as a Research Project Manager on a CO2 Removal Project. He then worked at Siemens Energy Inc. as a Heat Transfer Engineer, leading a multinational team of engineers in the design and construction of a new heat exchanger. Luis is a certified lifeguard, scuba diver and aside of English, is fluent in German, Spanish and Portuguese and has a basic knowledge of French. last updated December 2018
Funding: Petrobras (2006-2008), BioServe Space Technologies (2010-present), DAAD Fellowship to Germany (Feb-Aug 2014), CASIS AES-1 (2014-15)
LifeLAB Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) Test Bed Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2014)
Project Advisors: Dr. Dave Klaus and Dr. Jim Nabity
The LifeLAB team is designing, building, and validating a modular test facility within the CU Bioastronautics Lab, which provides infrastructure to enable research on Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) technologies with two vacuum chambers (RALPHEE and JANA), a water chiller loop and an air revitalization test rig (AETHER). The emphasis of the Fall 2014 group is on completion of AETHER in prep for verification and validation testing and outfitting RALFHEE in prep for vacuum and thermal operations.
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust and CU Engineering Excellence Fund (EEF)
last updated Dec 2014
HL-20 Spacecraft Cockpit Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2014)
Project Advisor: Jim Voss
Previous semesters of the HL-20 graduate project were funded by the Sierra Nevada Corporation in support of their Dream Chaser crew transportation vehicle, which was originally based on the HL-20 concept. Earlier work included several design iterations of the cockpit console and panels, human factors testing to validate design decisions, and traditional and alternative seat designs. The Spring 2014 team worked to modify the original cockpit mockup and cradle so that human factors ingress and egress testing could be carried out with the mockup in rotated into a vertical orientation as it would be at launch atop an Atlas V rocket. The team designed and built a steel frame structure and winch system to support and rotate the cockpit mockup between horizontal and vertical. The fiberglass shell was reinforced with internal ring frames and external fiberglass sheets to support the interfaces between the internal structure and the external steel structure. A new floor designed to hold the rigid pilots' seats and the console was installed.
The fall 2014 team completed design modifications to the external frame and winch system, and the secondary internal structure including flight console and four seats, needed to enable operation of the HL-20 cockpit mockup in a vertical orientation for human factors evaluations, which were carried out later in this semester.
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
last updated Dec 2014
X-Hab / OASIS Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2014)
Project Advisor: Joe Tanner
Building upon the CU X-Hab 2013 project “Remote Plant Production Capability,” and the CU X-Hab 2014 project “Plants Anywhere: Plants Growing in Free Habitat Spaces,” the goals for the 2014-2015 academic year are to develop and analyze a conceptual mission design for a deployable greenhouse on the surface of Mars using realistic technological capabilities; and to design, build, and test a prototype of a teleoperated, mini-deployable greenhouse that provides remote food production capability as a precursor to human planetary missions.
Project Funding: NASA Exploration Habit (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge
last updated Dec 2014
Griffin Hale
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2014)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Sierra Nevada Corp. (2014), Bigelow Aerospace (2015)
Mathematical Modeling of Microorganisms in Microgravity and ECLSS Technology Development
Robert (Griffin) Hale is currently pursuing his BS/MS in Aerospace Engineering with an emphasis in Bioastronautics and has completed a minor in Biochemistry at the University of Colorado. His applied math project focused on modeling the effects of flocculation on non-motile bacteria in microgravity. He volunteered for the outreach portion of the 2012 graduate winning NIA/NASA Revolutionary Aerospace Systems Concepts Academic Linkage (RASC_AL) competition, where a lunar base mockup was built in his garage. In 2013, he was a member of the Bioregenerative Life Support Systems, (BLSS) team. The BLSS team incorporated plants to supplement the life support capabilities in a detailed mission design to Mars. The team received the award for best graduate project as well as the award for best advanced concept in the 2013 RASC-AL competition. Griffin is currently the systems lead for the atmospheric portion of a graduate project team dedicated to designing, building, and validating an Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) test facility at the University of Colorado at Boulder. last updated Jan 2015
Stephanie Gonzalez
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2014)
Advisors: Dr. Louis Stodieck and Dr. Virginia Ferguson
Post-Graduation: Analytical Mechanics and Associates (2014)
Disuse osteopenia
Stefanie Gonzalez graduated with a Master of Science (MS) in Aerospace Engineering Sciences and is now working on the Thermal Protection System of the Orion Spacecraft with Analytical Mechanics and Associates (AMA). She earned her undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering from Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) in 2011. While pursuing her MS degree Stefanie focused her research on evaluating the role of phosphate dysregulation on disuse osteopenia to provide fundamental mechanistic knowledge that would enable future studies more appropriate for studying clinical and translational research. Additionally, Stefanie participated in the Caltech Space Challenge, an intensive 5-day mission design competition and was a member of the MIT/Skoltech Space Exploration Strategy Research Group. She also contributed to the design of the Sierra Nevada Corp. (SNC) Dream Chaser spacecraft through the graduate projects program at CU. Prior to the University of Colorado, Boulder, Stefanie participated in two internships at NASA Johnson Space center in the Space Life Sciences Department. She also spent a summer patterning fibroblast cells on microstructures at Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. During the final two years of pursuing her B.S., Stefanie worked at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Neurosurgery. Research that Stefanie conducted was presented at a platform session at the American Society for Gravitational and Space Research (ASGSR), Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS), Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) conference, Great Lakes Biomedical Engineering Conference, and at the Lumbar Spine Annual Meeting. Stefanie enjoys traveling the world, has backpacked through Scandinavia and southern Europe, has run several marathons, is scuba diving certified and is currently training for an ultra-marathon. last updated May 2014
Research Funding: BioServe Space Technologies (2012), NSF Fellowship (2013-2014)
Geoffrey King
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2014)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Mechanical and Thermal Design of the Space Automated Bio Lab for ISS
Geoffrey King earned a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Aeronautical Engineering from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, in 2010. During his degree, Geoff completed several internships including one summer at the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and another at the McGill Aerospace Mechatronics Laboratory. At CSA, Geoff implemented a microgravity drop tower to educate teachers about microgravity; Geoff also prepared a fluid configuration experiment to fly in microgravity on CSA's parabolic flight aircraft. Between undergrad and grad school, Geoff worked abroad as an Application Engineer for SolidWorks in Australia.
At CU Boulder, Geoff studies Aerospace Engineering and is specializing in Bioastronautics. Geoff works as a research assistant at BioServe Space Technologies, where he is continuing development of the Space Automated Bio Lab (SABL), a next-generation biological incubator to replace BioServe's Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CGBA). Geoff is working on the mechanical/thermal design and systems engineering for SABL, which uses thermoelectric modules to heat and cool a science volume containing biological experiments such as cell cultures. last updated May 2014
Funding: BioServe (2012-2014)
Stuart Tozer
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2014)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Bioserve Space Technologies
Spacecraft Atmosphere Revitalization System Test and Development
Stuart Tozer received his Bachelor of Biomedical and Electrical Engineering degree from Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario, in 2011. While at Carleton, he spent co-operative work terms at the Communications Research Centre Canada and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). At the CSA, Stuart worked with the Operational Space Medicine group to develop medical procedures and technologies for Moon and Mars analogue site projects, including integration of commercial off-the-shelf telemedicine equipment. Stuart also spent a summer term working with the Medical Information-Technology Research Group at Carleton, where his research focused on computer interfaces of a clinical decision-support system for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario. At Carleton, Stuart's senior engineering design project used memristors (resistors with hysteresis properties) to model synaptic plasticity in neurons, which forms the basis of pattern recognition in the visual system. This work earned his project group the IEEE Canada Student Paper Competition Life Member Award and was published in the IEEE Canadian Review Spring 2012 edition.
Stuart obtained his Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences, focusing on Bioastronautics, and a Master's degree in Engineering Management at the University of Colorado Boulder. His graduate project work has been on the Hybrid Sounding Rocket (HySoR) program and he served as Project Manager for the Fall 2012 semester. Additionally, Stuart was a member of the CU Boulder Extraterrestrial Outpost (ExO) project group that was awarded 1st-Place at the Revolutionary Aerospace Systems Concepts - Academic Linkage (RASC-AL) design competition in June 2012. In the summer of 2012, Stuart worked on a CO2 removal testbed project for Lockheed Martin, which included a feasibility study of the sensor technologies required to measure CO2 filter performance. Stuart's current research at BioServe Space Technologies is an atmospheric regeneration system (pressurized oxygen, CO2 and humidity removal) being developed for the SpaceX Dragon and Orbital Cygnus cargo spacecraft in order to support transport of live rodents to the ISS. last updated May 2014
Funding: Lockheed Martin (Summer 2012), BioServe Space Technologies (2012-2014)
LifeLAB Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2014)
Project Advisors: Dr. Dave Klaus and Dr. Jim Nabity
The LifeLAB team is designing, building, and validating a modular test facility within the CU Bioastronautics Lab, which provides infrastructure to enable research on Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) technologies with two vacuum chambers (RALPHEE and JANA), a water chiller loop and an air revitalization test rig (AETHER). The emphasis of the fall 2013/spring 2014 group is on enabling thermal and atmosphere testing.
Photo from left to right: Dr. James Nabity, Asa Darnell, Tobias Niederwieser, Jonathan Anthony, Roger Huang, Robert Griffin Hale, Elise Kowalski, Tyson Sparks, Karla Rosario, Katie Brissenden, Dr. David Klaus
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
last updated May 2014
Professor Hiroyuki Miyajima
Visting Professor
Hiroyuki Miyajima is a professor at Tokyo Jogakkan College. He conducted research on space habitation and space craft design as a visiting professor at the University of Colorado at Boulder, Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences during the fall semester of 2013.
He majored in aeronautics at Nihon University in Tokyo and has been doing research on space habitation design for over twenty years. One of his primary works concerns life support material circulation analysis and design to support habitation experiments for the Closed Ecology Experiment Facilities (CEEF), used in Japan’s Biosphere. He received a Ph.D. in this field in 2005.
He participated on Crew 132 at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) as an engineer and on Crew 137 as the commander of Team Nippon (Japan) in the 2013-2014 field season (see photo). He is currently engaged in research about logistics and life support systems analysis for high-mobility exploration. He is interested in space habitation technology, logistics and excursions using vehicles on planetary surfaces. last updated January 2014
LifeLAB Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2013)
Project Advisors: Dr. Dave Klaus and Dr. Jim Nabity
Beginning in the Fall of 2013, the LifeLAB team began developing an ECLSS test bed facility for use by CU students and faculty interested in developing technology to support life in space. The facility will eventually consist of four major test rigs: atmosphere, water, waste, and thermal.
The focus for the 2013/2014 academic year is to design and build the atmosphere and thermal test systems, and to begin the validation process for both of these rigs. The thermal system consists of a small, bell-jar thermal vacuum chamber (donated by Sierra Nevada Corp.), a cylindrical thermal vacuum chamber (being designed and fabricated by the LifeLAB team), and a water/glycol chiller loop (being utilized by a separate NASA-funded research project). The atmosphere rig will provide controlled input streams of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, trace gasses, and humidity at a range of concentrations. Validation testing is anticipated to begin in April 2014.
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
last updated December 2013
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2013)
Project Advisor: Col. Jim Voss
The fall 2013 project focused on the development of a high-fidelity cockpit console for use in a vertical mockup and assessment of pilot seats and controls in tandem with cockpit egress human factor evaluations. The cockpit was subjected to test loads of 1200 lbf to simulate expected loads on the structure that would be generated by fully suited crewmembers during ingress/egress operations. The human factor evaluations included analysis of anthropometric data ensure the design could accommodate a range of crewmembers from 5th percentile Japanese female to 95th percentile American male. In addition to use of test subjects, the team also developed a human model for CAD analysis.
Project Funding: Sierra Nevada Corporation
last updated December 2013
Jake Gamsky
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2013)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Sierra Nevada (2013-2014), ULA (2015)
ECLSS Technology Development
Jake Gamsky received his B.S. in Physics from the University of Kentucky in May of 2011 after spending 2 ½ years at Georgetown College on a baseball scholarship. He received his M.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado-Boulder in May of 2013 and spent the subsequent year exploring potential PhD thesis topics before deciding to move on to a professional career.
As an undergraduate student, Jake worked as an intern at the Kennedy Space Center and as a research associate in the NASA Academy at Ames Research Center. He also held positions at the Kentucky Space Engineering Lab, Students for the Exploration and Development of Space and the Commercial Spaceflight Federation. After graduating from Kentucky, Jake spent the summer in Graz, Austria participating in the International Space University’s Space Studies Program. Jake began working on his PhD while interning at the Sierra Nevada Corporation in the design and development of the Dream Chaser spacecraft. With his PhD work, Jake hopes to advance an air revitalization technology for future use in long duration human spaceflight missions. In his spare time Jake enjoys traveling, sports, entrepreneurship, camping, snowboarding, SCUBA diving and exercising. last updated Jan 2015
Funding: NSF Fellowship (2011-2014)
X-Hab Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2012 / Spring 2013)
Project Advisors: Joe Tanner and Nikolaus Correll
At the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, students from University of Colorado are working with NASA mentors in developing a robotic capability for growing a variety of plants, both for consumption as well as the benefit of oxygen-carbon dioxide cycling. Considerations range from monitoring and nutrient supply to selection of plants and autonomy. The activity is part of the eXploration Habitat, or X-Hab, Academic Innovation Challenge. Standing, left to right, are Gioia Massa of the NASA ISS Ground Processing and Research Project Office, Daniel Zukowski, Morgan Simpson of the NASA Ground Processing Directorate, Heather Hava, Keira Havens, Matthew Carton, Christine Fanchiang, Jordan Holquist and Kennedy Director Bob Cabana. Kneeling, left to right, are Ray Wheeler of the NASA Engineering and Technology Directorate, Tracy Gill of the NASA Center Planning and Development Directorate, Scott Mishra and Robert Griffin Hale. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann (Not pictured from the CU X-Hab team are Karuna Raja Reddy, Rohit Dewani, Pileun Kim, Tim Villabona, Emily Howard, and Huy Le)
Supported by http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/technology/deep_space_habitat/xhab/ KSC-2013-2867 (06/21/2013)
last updated June 2013
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2013)
Project Advisors: Ken Stroud, Joe Tanner, and Col. Jim Voss
For Spring 2013, the team was tasked with providing preliminary design recommendations for cockpit and seating to SNC, including structural load and human interface analyses. The cockpit design team modified the engineering design unit (EDU) to provide a realistic representation of the Dream Chaser interior. The work included; reconstruction of the mounting structure and panels to incorporate the previous semester’s recommendations; installed space rated switches, display screens, hand controls; added ELCSS volumetric insert; mounted ring frame mockups and integrated new seats into the cockpit. The seating team completed designs for a rigid traditional pilot seat with a cloth seat for non-flight crew members to minimize mass and volume. The work included an in-depth structural analysis on both designs; seat fabrication; installation of fore/aft and up/down actuation for the pilot seat; test structure development and load testing; and ingress/egress evaluations.
Pictured left to right, standing: Joe Tanner, Jeffrey Oxenbury, Mark Robinson, Brandon Wilk, Matthew Lawry, Daniel Green and Jim Voss; front row: Emily Logan, Ashley Williams, Ashley Gleaves, and Stefanie Gonzalez
Project Funding: Sierra Nevada Corporation
last updated May 2013
Bioastronautics Research Group
(Fall 2012)
Joshua Hecht
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (December 2012)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Paragon Space Development Corp. (2013)
Feasibility and Effectiveness of a Water-Based Self-Regulating Freezable Heat Exchanger
Joshua Hecht received his BS in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado, Boulder and is currently pursuing his MS with an emphasis in Bioastronautics. His research focuses on modeling, testing, and implementation analysis of a self-regulating freezable heat exchanger intended for use within a human-rated spacecraft. His other academic interests include Spanish, psychology, and physiology. Joshua worked as a satellite operator for four years at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), and spent half a year in satellite design with Broadreach Engineering. Outside of school, Joshua enjoys mid distance running, rock climbing, skydiving, yoga, home brewing beer, and spending time with family. last updated January 2014
Funding: NASA STTR with TDA Research, Inc. (2012)
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2012)
Project Advisors: Ken Stroud and Merri Sanchez from SNC, and former NASA Astronauts Jim Voss and Joe Tanner
Project Focus: Spacecraft cockpit Displays and Controls and Seat Design
Project Funding: Sierra Nevada Corporation
last updated December 2012
Philipp Hager
Visiting Student
Practicum Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Advisor: Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Ulrich Walter, Institute of Astronautics, Technische Universität München (TUM)
Dynamic thermal modeling for moving objects on atmosphere-less celestial bodies
Philipp studied at the Technische Universität Karlsruhe (now KIT- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology) where he received his pre-diploma in mechanical engineering in 2005. He received a Diploma (MS thesis: Development of a dynamic human water balance model for verification and optimization of life support systems in space flight applications) in Aerospace Engineering in 2008 from the Technische Universität München (TUM). His main focus and interest is exploration of the solar system. He participated in an internship at Thales Alenia Space, SPA in Turin, Italy in 2007, working in the ESA Aurora program. In 2008 he participated in the ESA Alpbach Summer School, designing a mission to an M-type asteroid. In his master thesis he developed a simulation of the human water and electrolyte balance system in conjunction with ECLSS simulations. In 2009 he joined the LRT as a research assistant and, amongst other projects, has since been working on the thermal and dust environment on the lunar surface and its impact on spacecraft. Philipp likes to travel, see and explore not only the solar system but also different parts of the world. In his free time Philipp likes to run, hike, snowboard, do Aikido, soccer, and play guitar. His Ph.D. work on the thermal modeling for moving objects on atmosphere-less celestial bodies is connected to electronically controlled electrochromic radiators, which are under investigation at the CU bioastronautics group for their application with spacesuits. He earned his Ph.D. from TUM in 2013. last updated August 2013
Funding: (while at CU Fall 2012): German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Microgravity Convective Heat Transfer Flight Research
(Summer 2012)
Project Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
A group of six CU undergraduate students were selected to participate in NASA’s 2012 Reduced-Gravity Education Flight Program to conduct their experiment titled ‘Validating the Gravity Dependence of the Churchill-Chu Correlation for Free Convective Heat Transfer from a Finite, Flat Plate: A Study of the Effects of Gravity on Free Convective Heat Transfer during Parabolic Flights’
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust, UCEC, CU Aerospace Department, CU Dean’s Office
See video summary of the flight - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSnrFg_j_vI
last updated August 2012
Jennifer Mindock
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Wyle, NASA JSC
Development and Application of Spaceflight Performance Shaping Factors for Human Reliability Analysis
Jennifer Mindock received a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado, Boulder, within the Department’s Bioastronautics focus area. She holds a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Florida and an M.S. in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Stanford University. Jennifer began her doctoral studies in January of 2009. Her thesis involved developing a function-based, Probabilistic Risk Assessment methodology for characterizing spacecraft conceptual design trade space. The research is based on analysis of system-level risk factors to define mitigation design strategies. Until December 2008, her primary industry experience was as a Senior System Engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). In her 8 years with JPL, she led teams spanning multiple NASA centers and various disciplines on projects ranging from high-level customer requirements and capability definition to low-level, detailed hardware testing and vehicle performance analysis. In these roles, she contributed to projects including the Autonomous Landing and Hazard Avoidance Technology (ALHAT) evaluating various sensors and algorithms for landing humans and equipment on the moon, the Mars Phoenix Lander, the Mars Exploration Rovers, and the Space Interferometry Mission. Jennifer has now extended her professional career into human space flight applications.
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship (2009-2012), ARCS Scholar, Zonta Amelia Earhart Fellowship
Additional Info: NASA Astronaut Candidate Finalist, 2009
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2012)
Project Advisors: Ken Stroud, Merri Sanchez, and NASA Astronauts Jim Voss (far right), Joe Tanner and Steve Lindsey
Project Focus: Spacecraft cockpit Displays and Controls design and layout
Team photo with SNC advisor Jim Voss
Project Funding: Sierra Nevada Corporation
last updated June 2012
Sarah Over
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2012)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: PhD program at Texas A&M, Nuclear Engineering, Space Life Sciences emphasis
Spacecraft Cockpit Design and Human-Vehicle Interactions
Sarah Over completed her undergraduate studies in Aerospace Engineering from Virginia Tech and is currently pursuing her M.S. in Aerospace Engineering with a Bioastronautics emphasis at CU Boulder. Her research focuses on cockpit development for air and space vehicles, defining research needs driven by vehicle design and human-vehicle interaction. She also has research interests in aerospace medicine, specifically human factors, accident prevention, and radiation effects and mitigation. She has held internships with NASA Glenn Research Center focusing on digital modeling of human physiology and applying sun sensors to manned lunar exploration. Sarah's goal is to continue her studies working toward a professional career in academia, teaching and conducting research in aerospace medicine. last updated June 2012
Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust Summer (2011), AAUW Selected Professions Fellowship (2011-2012)
Kevin Higdon
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Sierra Nevada Corporation
A Systematic Process for Assessing Human Spacecraft Designs in Terms of Relative Safety and Operational Characteristics
Kevin received his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Auburn University (1996) and his Master’s of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville (2005). His graduate-level research involved the development of a numerical analysis program for NASA Marshall Space Flight Center which predicted the thrust and side loads of differentially throttled liquid plug nozzle engines in a very quick timeframe when compared to conventional CFD programs. While pursuing his Master’s degree, he also supported the US Army’s Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) program as a Propulsion Systems Engineer. He developed and continues to support the Boost Motor Analysis Program (BMAP) which is used by the US Army for reduction of solid rocket motor flight test data from White Sands Missile Range. Although his graduate research and work experience has been in the field of missile and space propulsion, his primary focus at CU is in human spacecraft design. Kevin is currently completing his PhD thesis research combining various applications of systems engineering, computational modeling and human factors analysis for conceptual human spacecraft design. last updated June 2012
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship (2006-2007), William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2011)
Project Advisors: Merri Sanchez (left), and NASA Astronauts Jim Voss (right), Joe Tanner (back row) and Steve Lindsey (center)
Project Focus: To develop a cockpit design architecture focusing on displays, controls, and layout for the SNC Dream Chaser space system based on advances in cockpit technology balanced with NASA heritage systems. The Fall 2011 semester produced an improved architecture and a functional cockpit mockup, which included a computer system that allowed for control of up to six electronic displays in the cockpit by the operator. This facility was then used for conducting a second round of human factors evaluations.
Students, from left to right: Jason Carpenter, Brian Curtis, Dan Anderson, Luis Zea, Ian Aber, Jenae Lestishen, Becca Mitchell, Sarah Over, Heather Hava, Brian Roth, Matt Ducheck, Chris Massina.
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust and Sierra Nevada Corporation
last updated December 2011
Jonas Schnaitmann
Visiting Student
Practicum Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Advisor: Dr. Ulrich Walter
Verification and enhancement of an environmentally sensitive human physiological model
Jonas Schnaitmann is studying aerospace engineering at the Technical University in Munich (TUM). He worked on his diploma (Master’s) thesis at CU in Boulder during the fall 2011 term, where he further integrated the different sub-models of a human physiological model used within a life support system simulation project called "Virtual Habitat" (V-HAB) at TUM, and subsequently verified and further enhanced the model. His overall interest lies in life support system simulations with focus on the human physiology, physical/chemical subsystems and control strategies. In 2010, he spent four months in Japan as an intern at the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in Tokyo, working on the modeling and simulation of air revitalization systems, particularly a two bed molecular sieve. He earned his Dipl Ing Aerospace from TUM in 2012. last updated June 2012
Funding: German Fellowship
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2011)
Project Advisors: Jim Voss (far left), Joe Tanner (not pictured), Merri Sanchez and Prof Klaus (far right)
Project Focus: To develop a cockpit design architecture focusing on displays, controls, and layout for the SNC Dream Chaser space system based on advances in cockpit technology balanced with NASA heritage systems. The Spring 2011 semester produced the baseline cockpit architecture and a form/fit cockpit mockup that was utilized for a first round of human factors evaluations.
Students from left to right: Jason Carpenter, Dustin Martin, Dan Anderson, Heather Hava, Matt Ducheck, Luis Zea, Sarah Over, Chris Massina, Drew Gottula, Weston Edwards
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust and Sierra Nevada Corporation
last updated May 2011
Ben Kemper
BS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (2010)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: US Air Force
Human Spacecraft Safety and Operability
Ben received his Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado and his commission into the Air Force in 2010. While waiting to go to pilot training, he completed initial coursework for his Master’s of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering also at the University of Colorado and plans to continue through CAETE. Ben's graduate research revolved around different facets of the Dream Chaser human spacecraft beginning with the development of a software tool to determine and evaluate the placement of components internal to the vehicle's pressurized volume. In 2010, he was part of a research team to develop a human rating plan for the Dream Chaser and the systems engineer on a separate effort to design a cockpit architecture for the vehicle. As an undergraduate, Ben was a project manager or a team lead for half a dozen diverse student projects and spent 2 summers interning for Lockheed Martin. Ben's goal is to attend test pilot school and extend his professional career toward human space flight applications after retiring from the Air Force. last updated December 2010
Funding: Sierra Nevada Corp, under NASA CCDev Contract
Chad Healy
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (December 2010)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Human Spacecraft Safety and Operability
Chad Healy is an Ensign in the United States Navy working towards his Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado at Boulder. His studies are focused in the field of Bioastronautics, revolving around the development and design of Sierra Nevada Corporation’s Dream Chaser Spacecraft. He helped to draft a Human Rating Plan for the vehicle, and was project manager for a team designing its displays and controls layout. In addition, Chad has worked on developing a methodology for evaluating internal configurations of human-rated spacecraft, specifically tailored to the Dream Chaser, and was a Research Assistant for BioServe Space Technologies. Prior to his time in Boulder, Chad graduated from the United States Naval Academy (USNA) in May 2009 with a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering. He conducted research as the lead systems engineer and attitude control systems engineer for three CubeSat missions in various stages of development. Chad also worked on the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna at Goddard Space Flight Center, where he developed lock acquisition algorithms for laser stabilization cavities. last updated December 2010
Funding: BioServe Space Technologies; Sierra Nevada Corp, under NASA CCDev Contract
Jonathan Metts
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Sierra Nevada Corporation (2011-2014), Bigelow Aerospace (2015)
Assessing Feasibility of Electrochromic Space Suit Radiators for Reducing Extravehicular Activity Water Consumption
Jonathan received his B.S. (2004) and M.S. (2006) in Aerospace Engineering from Auburn University. During this time, he managed a team of undergraduate students in a research project funded by Transformational Space Corporation (t/Space), in which students designed, prototyped, and tested a flexible, lightweight spacecraft seat. He also studied the Russian language at Auburn University and received a scholarship to study the language and culture in St. Petersburg, Russia in the summer of 2003. Jonathan's M.S. research background is in optimization of missile systems via genetic algorithms, but returned to his primary interest, human space flight, upon entering the PhD program at CU-Boulder. His thesis topic defines and evaluates the application of variable-emissivity materials for a flexible, integrated radiator-based thermal control system in space suits. During his time at CU, Jonathan also helped build the Lunar Lander mock-up and was part of a team developing a human-rating plan for the Dream Chaser commercial space vehicle. He served as a Research Assistant for BioServe, a Teaching Assistant for ASEN 2004, Lead Graduate Teacher for the AES department, and on judication panels for the CU Honor Code. Jonathan graduated with his PhD in December 2010 and plans to continue research on human spaceflight in government or industry, with an eventual return to academia later in his career. last updated Jan 2015
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship (2007-2010), ARCS Scholar (2008), Conference Travel by the William F. Marlar Memorial Trust (2010), Sierra Nevada Corp-under NASA CCDev Contract (2010)
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2010)
Project Advisors: Merri Sanchez (left), Jim Voss (center) and Joe Tanner (front)
Project Focus: The emphasis for this semester was narrowed down to spacecraft cockpit design and ergonomics evaluation. A rapid engineering prototype was configured based on definition of functional requirements and was used to conduct initial field-of-view and reach envelope evaluations from both the left and right seats.
Team photo with SNC and CU project advisors.
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust and Sierra Nevada Corporation
last updated December 2010
Ryan Kobrick
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post Graduation: Postdoc at MIT (2010-2012), Space Florida (2012-2016), Assistant Prof., Embry Riddle (2016)
Characterization and Measurement Standardization of Lunar Dust Abrasion for Spacecraft Design and Operations
Dr. Ryan L. Kobrick received his BS degree in Mechanical Engineering from Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario (2002), his Master's of Space Studies degree from the International Space University in Strasbourg, France (2003), his Master's of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from The Pennsylvania State University (2005) in University Park, PA, and his PhD in Aerospace Engineering Sciences (focus: Bioastronautics) from the University of Colorado at Boulder in Boulder, CO.
He worked with the X PRIZE Foundation (2003, 2004 & 2006) developing the follow-on event to the $10 million ANSARI X PRIZE called the X PRIZE Cup. Ryan participated as a crewmember in The Mars Society's Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) four times of crews 25 (2004), 44 / ExBeta (2006), 56 / ExGamma (2007) and 58 / FMARS Training (2007). From his MDRS experiences, he was selected for a 100-day Mars mission simulation in the High Canadian Arctic on Devon Island, Nunavut at the Mars Society's Flashline Mars Arctic Research Station (FMARS). On the FMARS Crew 11 Long Duration Mission (F-XI LDM), he facilitated the Human Factors studies for the crew of 7 as well as being a crew engineer. His CU-Boulder start was in the summer of 2005 researching space suit portable life support systems with Dr. Klaus on a NASA-funded project.
Ryan was awarded a 2007 NASA Graduate Student Researchers Program (GSRP) award. He was the recipient of the 2006 AIAA Orville and Wilbur Wright Graduate Award, a three-time Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) Scholar 2006-2009, and was the Department’s 2009 John A. Vise Memorial Scholarship recipient. Ryan participated in space outreach as an alumni of the Advisory Committee for the CU-Boulder chapter of the Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (CUSEDS), and as an advisor for both SEDS Canada and Mars Society Canada's Exploration Mars (ExMars) Program. In July 2010, Ryan was named Executive Director of Yuri's Night. last updated August 2016
Homepage: www.RyInSpace.com
Funding: NASA CRAVE DO1 (2005), BioServe Space Technologies, AIAA Orville and Wilbur Wright Graduate Award (2006), ARCS Scholar (2006), CU EEF Grant (2007), NASA GSRP Fellowship (2007-2010), Conference Travel by the William F. Marlar Memorial Trust (2010)
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Spring 2010)
Project Advisors: Jim Voss and Joe Tanner
Project Focus: Definition and development of a volumetric mockup for layout analysis correlated to a mass and CG computational model.
Louisville Company Supports CU Aerospace Students and Faculty in Dream Chaser Development
Astronauts Trade in Spaceflight for Student Contact
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
last updated June 2010
Dream Chaser Graduate Projects Team
(Fall 2009)
Project Advisors: Jim Voss and Joe Tanner
Project Focus: Habitable volume layout definition with mass and CG computational model.
Astronaut Jim Voss Joins CU-Boulder Aerospace Faculty
Project Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
last updated December 2009
Evan Thomas
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: NASA Civil Servant, Johnson Space Center, Crew and Thermal Systems (2004-2010), Assistant Professor, Portland State University (2010)
Sustainable Fouling Management for Spacecraft Fluid Handling Systems
Evan completed his BS/MS Aerospace Engineering at CU-Boulder in May 2006. As a cooperative education employee at NASA's Johnson Space Center, Evan worked in the Life Support and Habitability Systems Branch in the Crew and Thermal Systems Division. His MS research at CU and at NASA was in Microgravity Fire Detection, analyzing the feasibility of a Modulated Laser Analyzer for Combustion Products (MLA-CP) for the crewed spacecraft environment. Evan was also Editor-in-Chief of the Colorado Engineer Magazine, and is involved with Engineers Without Borders (EWB), leading sustainable development projects in Rwanda and Nepal. Evan founded the EWB-JSC chapter with other NASA engineers in 2004. Evan has received multiple awards from NASA and EWB for engineering development. last updated September 2010
Funding: NASA JSC Fellowship, CU EEF
Brock Kowalchuk
BS Aerospace Engineering Sciences (May 2011)
Project Supervisor: Dr. David Klaus and Kevin Higdon (PhD student)
Prototyping the Next Generation Lunar Lander Vehicle Habitat
Brock is currently pursuing a BS in Aerospace Engineering and a certificate in Engineering Entrepreneurship at the University of Colorado at Boulder, expecting to graduate in May 2011. He was involved with prototyping the Lunar Ascent Module during his sophomore year in the program. His work included developing volumetric and CAD models of subsystem hardware components for a proposed “Minimum Functionality” Lunar Ascent Module design. Currently, he works as a Command Controller at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), operating several spacecraft, including Kepler. After completing his BS, Brock is planning to pursue an advanced engineering degree in either Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering. His interests include entrepreneurship and learning how people can better interface with technology. last updated June 2011
Funding: Dean’s Discovery Learning Apprentice (2008-2009) and the William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
Andrea Hanson
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences (December 2008)
Advisor: Dr. Virginia Ferguson (CU Mech Eng)
Post-Graduation: Postdoc at University of Washington, NASA JSC
Tissue Engineering to Assess Bone and Muscle Atrophy and Radiation Exposure During Space Flight
Andrea received a BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of North Dakota in 2002. Her interests lie in the area of assessing bone and muscle atrophy during long duration space flight and looking at the effects of radiation exposure during space flight. She has worked with BioServe Space Technologies for the past year looking at protein inhibitors that may help atrophying muscles and has worked on an osteoprotegrin bone study. She is also working with cell cultures to study the effects of radiation on mammalian cells. last updated December 2014
Funding: BioServe Space Technologies
Bioastronautics Research Group
(Fall 2008)
This group photo represents student and faculty researchers with interests ranging from the development of biomedical countermeasures against bone and muscle atrophy experienced by astronauts to design of space suit and spacecraft habitats, spanning the study and support of life in space. The team is supported by a wide range of contracts and grants from NASA and private industry.
BioServe Space Technologies, a Research Center housed in the Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department since 1987, largely anchors this program.
NASA Astronaut Joe Tanner (back center),who recently joined our faculty, brings a wealth of firsthand experience to the Bioastronautics Program with four shuttle flights and seven space walks to his credit. He is now helping to educate the next generation of space engineers.
taken December 2008
Ralf Purschke
Visiting Student, MS TUM 2009
Practicum Supervisor: Dr. David Klaus
Advisor: Dr. Ulrich Walter
Post-Graduation: PhD Student, TUM
Human anthropometric modeling for spacecraft design
Ralf received his Diploma / MS in Aerospace Engineering from the Technische Universität München (TUM) in the Human Spaceflight Research Group. He is interested in Human Spaceflight and Satellite Design. For his MS he studied neutral body posture of astronauts in weightlessness and developed a model for predicting body posture in space. He conducted his Practicum as an International Exchange student at CU from fall 2008 through spring 2009, before returning to the TUM Institute of Astronautics under Prof. Walter. There he is working on a project which is funded by the German Space Administration in the field of Space Mechanism Design. last updated September 2010
Funding: German Fellowship
Kennda Lynch
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences May 2008
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: PhD Student, CSM
Quantitative Habitability Assessment of Planetary Environments
Kennda’s research interests involve elucidating environments on a planetary surface that are most likely to be habitable through an integrated predication technology that is aimed at detecting biosignatures in the local environment. This work will have the most immediate impact on future Martian in-situ investigations; however this system can be utilized in mission platforms for other astrobiology targets such as Europa, Enceladus and Titan as well. Kennda completed her MS degree from CU in the Spring of 2008 and is now continuing toward a PhD at the Colorado School of Mines. last updated August 2008
Recipient of a 2008 NASA Harriet Jenkins Predoctoral Fellowship
Matthias Pfeiffer
Visiting Student, MS Aerospace Eng TUM 2008
Practicum Supervisor: Dr. David Klaus
Advisor: Dr. Ulrich Walter
Post-Graduation: PhD Student, TUM
Human metabolic model for integrated ECLSS robustness analysis
Matthias received his Diplom/MS in Aerospace Engineering from Technische Universität München (TUM) in the Human Spaceflight Research Group. His interests lie in the field of human spaceflight and In-situ Resource Utilization (ISRU). For his MS thesis he developed a simulation of human metabolism for an integrated evaluation of ECLSS robustness. He conducted his Practicum as an International Exchange student at CU during the fall of 2007 and spring 2008, before returning to the TUM Institute of Astronautics under Prof. Walter. There Matthias worked on the design and development of a compact antenna pointing mechanism for small satellite. He was later offered the opportunity to conduct research for future lunar ISRU technologies and is currently funded by a German Space Administration grant to investigate possible extraction of solar wind implanted particles on the moon. last updated September 2010
Funding: German Fellowship
Jan Harder
Visiting Student, MS Aerospace Eng. TUM 2008
Practicum Supervisor: Dr. David Klaus
Advisor: Dr. Ulrich Walter
Post-Graduation: PhD Student, TUM
Human respiratory system model to support the design of a space habitat
Jan received his Diploma / MS in Aerospace Engineering from the Technische Universität München (TUM) in the Human Spaceflight Research Group. He is interested in Human Spaceflight and Satellite Design. For his MS thesis, he developed a simulation for the human respiratory system for an integrated evaluation of ECLSS robustness. He conducted his Practicum as an International Exchange student at CU from fall 2007 through spring 2008, before returning to the TUM Institute of Astronautics under Prof. Walter. Together with Matthias Pfeiffer and Ralf Purschke he worked on a technology development project for small satellite antenna systems for Real-Time Teleoperation in Space. Jan is also engaged in the CubeSat project MOVE which is the first Nano-Satellite of TUM. last updated November 2010
Funding: German Fellowship
Lunar Habitat Design Team
(Spring and Fall 2007)
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus (left)
This pilot MS Grad Project course, first offered in the Spring of 2007, was aimed at the following design goals and objectives: 1) analyze anticipated crew tasks (internal and extravehicular activities) to define operational requirements for the lunar surface sortie missions, 2) construct a rapidly-reconfigurable, full-scale prototype of the Lunar Habitat to assess vehicle configuration trade spaces, 3) conduct a computational mass analysis (CAD model of structure and subsystems) coupled to the mockup dimensions aimed at minimizing ascent stage mass, and 4) host local K-12 and public outreach events showcasing the ‘life size’ spacecraft mockup, complete with spacesuit demonstrations. Ten students participated in the inaugural project, 7 of whom took jobs working on the development of NASA’s new Crew Exploration Vehicle, Orion, and next generation spacesuit for lunar exploration. last updated 11/2/07
Project Funding: CU Engineering Excellence Fund and the William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
Farres Ahmed
BS MCD Biology May 2007
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Medical School, CU Health Sciences
Assessing the Role of Gravity on Biological-Physical Interface Phenomena Governing Bacterial Growth
Farres’ research as an undergraduate at the University of Colorado at Boulder in MCD Biology focused on the temperature dependent growth and sedimentation characteristics of E. coli. In the future, he hopes to use this research to help better define E. coli growth patterns in simulated microgravity. last updated August 2008
Funding: SURE (2004), BURST (2005-2006), UROP (Summer 2006)
Dan Baca
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences May 2007
Post-Graduation: Lockheed Martin
Lunar Surface Access Module: Design Analysis and Mockup Development
Dan completed his BA in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Montana, Missoula in May 2003. He simultaneously completed another BA in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science. He continued working in his management position for CRS Hardware Corporation until he enrolled in the Aerospace Engineering Master's program at the University of Colorado in 2005. As a Research Assistant in the NASA Academy, Dan worked in the optics branch of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center on modeling the far field phase patterns of the future Laser Interferometer Space Antenna. He is currently serving as Vice President for the CU chapter of Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (CUSEDS). Dan is also with working Dr. Klaus on a new project involving the construction and analysis of a Lunar Surface Access Module (LSAM) prototype. This will help better define the requirements of the future spacecraft and create a laboratory component for the graduate Bioastronautics courses offered at CU. last updated May 2007
Funding: William F. Marlar Memorial Trust
Anna Stanczyk
Visiting Student
Project Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Evaluating the Effects of Antibiotics on Bacterial Motility
Anna is an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan campus in Flint who spent the summer of 2006 at CU Boulder as a research intern. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, with a concentration in Biochemistry through the Honors Scholar Program at U of M Flint. Her research is focusing on validating a protocol for assessing E. coli motility, as well as testing motility in the presence of antibiotics to attempt to resolve data that conflicts with the hypothesized model of how microorganisms respond to a microgravity environment. In the future, Anna will use this research as the basis of her Senior Honors Thesis, and she is continuing the motility studies at her home campus. last updated September 2006
Funding: University of Michigan-Flint Honors Scholar Program
Vanessa Aponte
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Lockheed Martin
MEMS Biosensor Technology for Monitoring Astronaut Immune Response
Vanessa obtained her BS and MS Degrees in Chemical Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (12/96 & 6/00). As an undergraduate she participated in a variety of research projects ranging from analysis of chemical engineering processes using computer modeling at Carnegie Mellon University to studying electrophoretic aggregation of latex particles as an intern at the University of Colorado at Boulder. She first had the opportunity to work with the space program through her graduate studies, as her research was sponsored by NASA Kennedy Space Center in the area of Advanced Life Support. She has obtained multiple research awards, published her work and is affiliated with several professional organizations including AIAA, AIChE, Tau Beta Pi and NSS. Her academic and research achievements allowed her to obtain a GEM fellowship sponsored by NASA Dryden Flight Research Center to begin pursuing doctoral studies in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at CU. Her research interests lie in the area of MEMS biosensors with a focus in Bioastronautics applications, more specifically, detection of immune system response in astronauts. last updated April 2010
Funding: NASA GSRP (2004 -2006) (HQ), NASA Co-Op (2003)-Biological Systems Office-NASA Johnson Space Center, GEM Fellowship (2001)
Additional Info: NASA Astronaut Candidate Finalist, 2009 and 2012
Steve Chappell
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Wyle, NASA JSC - EVA Physiology, Systems, & Performance Project (EPSP), Human Adaptation & Countermeasures
Planetary EVA Design and Operations
Steve achieved a BS in Aerospace engineering from the University of Michigan. He worked for several years for FAAC, Inc. and moved on to Lockheed Martin as a systems engineer and architect of ground systems for classified programs. He then returned to graduate school, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from the University of Colorado, concentrating on coursework in Bioastronautics. Presently, Steve works part-time at the Laboratory for Atmospheric & Space Physics as the Deputy Mission Systems Engineer on the AIM Program. As a PhD student, Steve is conducting research that will support NASA's new human exploration focus. His thesis emphasis is on the physiological impacts and workload of human exploration in partial gravity environments, working with the locomotion laboratory of the Department of Integrative Physiology. Specifically, his research is focused on measuring the energy expenditure associated with inertial mass in simulated partial gravity locomotion. The specific goal of this research is to better quantify life support resource needs for EVA operations and to improve guidelines for EVA system design that will help to optimize astronaut performance. Associated interests include development of novel operations concepts and equipment for planetary EVA in challenging terrain, with the overall goal of providing future human explorers a means to access scientifically significant terrain on the Moon and Mars, such as steep sedimentary slopes, while mitigating risk and dealing with contingencies. In addition to his professional and academic pursuits, Steve has been an active member of Rocky Mountain Rescue for the last 10 years. last updated August 2010
Funding: AIAA Foundation Graduate Award, 2005
Additional Info: NASA Astronaut Candidate Finalist (2009), Member of NASA NEEMO 14 Mission (2010)
James Clawson
Advisor: Dr. Alex Hoehn
Post-Graduation: Stellar Solutions, Inc.
Durability and design approaches in the use of flexible transparent polymer films for a Mars greenhouse application
Jim received his Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Cincinnati. He worked as a systems engineer for the Department of Defense at GE Aircraft Engines monitoring the production of engines for the B-1, F-14, and F-16 and the development of engine components for the F/A-18E/F. He transferred to Lockheed Martin Astronautics to monitor the development of the RD-180 rocket engine for the Atlas V launch vehicle family. Concurrently, he began working on a Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Colorado. After completing his Master’s, he resigned from the DoD and continued towards a PhD with BioServe, where his work has included investigating the use of laser tweezers to study plant gravitropism, studying the antifungal response of mung bean sprouts aboard the Mir space station, and the design, construction, and operation of BioServe’s Plant Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (PGBA) payload. His doctoral research is addressing some of the engineering challenges associated with the design of transparent inflatable structures for a Mars greenhouse application. He mentored the winning design team for the 2002 NASA Marsport Mars Deployable Greenhouse design competition. He also founded the Bioastronautical Systems Development Company, which was awarded an SBIR grant. last updated July 2006
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship-JSC (2000-2003) BioServe Space Technologies
Heather Howard
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences May 2004
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: The Aerospace Corporation
Antibiotic Effectiveness in Altered Gravitational Environments
Heather earned her BA in Biochemistry and Managerial Studies from Rice University in 1999. After graduation, she was employed as a software developer for a few years before returning to graduate school at the University of Colorado. She completed her MS in Aerospace Engineering and began working toward doctoral studies investigating how microgravity alters antibiotic effectiveness against bacteria before deciding to move on to a professional career. last updated June 2006
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship-JSC (2004-2006)
James Russell
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences December 2005
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Postdoc at Purdue University (2005-2006), Lockheed Martin (2006)
Jim’s research interests are in Human Space Mission Metrics for the selection of Advanced Life Support Technologies as an alternative to the current metric Equivalent System Mass. He participated in the Mars Society’s Mars Desert Research Station as a crewmember (MDRS Crew 27) from March 27 to April 11, 2004. In addition to his PhD research, he worked as a Research Assistant for BioServe Space Technologies on space flight payloads and on the development of a long term air treatment system for mouse space habitat. He has also supported an undergraduate research project involving biosensor applications of Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). Jim is currently a Post Doctoral Research Associate at Purdue University at the ALS NSCORT. last updated October 2006
Funding: AIAA Foundation Graduate Award (2002 and 2005), Sigma Xi Scientific Research Society ‘Grant-in-Aid of Research’ Award (2003)
Matt Bamsey
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences December 2005
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Canadian Space Agency and PhD Student at the University of Guelph
Foundations of Mars Colonization
Matt Bamsey graduated with a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. He has spent a number of work terms at the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), including a sixteen-month internship, three summers with the CSA Space Science department on Devon Island with the Arthur Clarke Mars Greenhouse project, as well as working for the RADARSAT-2 program. Matt has been active in various space advocacy groups for many years and was president of Mars Society, Canada between 2003 and 2005. He is also the current student advisor to the Mars Institute Board of Advisors. Other interests of Matt's include space history with a focus on Soviet/Russian aspects and space-related political lobbying. His research interests are focused on Mars colonization and the integration of the numerous disparate disciplines that are required to establish a sustainable colony. last updated September 2010
Funding: NASA CRAVE DO6
Additional Info: CSA Astronaut Candidate (Final 16) 2009 and 2017
Mike Benoit
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Postdoc at Stanford University (2006-2010), Codexis (2010)
Characterization of Gravity-Dependent Extracellular Mass Transport Phenomena
Mike received his Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from the University of New Hampshire and his Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from the University of Colorado. From 1999 through 2002, he worked at BioServe Space Technologies, a NASA Research Partnership Center, as a test engineer and also as the lead microbiologist for an experiment that flew onboard the International Space Station during increment 8A. His PhD work was funded by a Graduate Student Researchers Program (GSRP) fellowship from NASA Glenn Research Center, where he collaborated with Dr. Emily Nelson in the Computational Microgravity Laboratory to develop numerical model techniques for characterizing the effects of weightlessness on extracellular mass transport phenomena. last updated May 2010
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship (2002 - 2005) (GRC NGT3-52386), CU Aerospace Department John A. Vise Award (2003), AIAA Foundation Graduate Award (2003)
Hans Seelig
Advisor: Dr. Alex Hoehn
Post-Graduation: Postdoc at NIST 2006-09, Professor at University of Dresden, Germany 2009
Non-Contact Techniques for Detection of Water Stress in Plants for Space Flight Growth Chamber Application
Hans received his Bachelor’s degree in Automation Technologies at the Hochschule TuW (FH) in Dresden/Germany (06/97), concentrating on biomedical engineering. He worked for several years for the University Hospital in Dresden and for the Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Systems in Dresden, participating in various research projects involving non-contact measurement methods. In 1999 Hans came to the University of Colorado for graduate studies, obtaining his Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences in May 2001. From 1999 to 2005 Hans worked for BioServe Space Technologies as Research Assistant. He participated in the upgrade of BioServe’s space plant growth chamber (PGBA) for long term missions in controller optimization and launch preparations for an experiment that flew on the International Space Station in 2002 for about 8 weeks. Hans’ research. involved utilizing plants for advanced life support, in particular using remote sensing techniques for monitoring plant health. His dissertation focused on the development of non-contact techniques for detecting water deficit stress in plants. last updated July 2009
Funding: BioServe Space Technologies
James Manley
BS EPO Biology May 2005
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus (with Mike Benoit)
Post-Graduation: Medical School, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD
Assessing the Effect of Simulated Weightlessness on a Neutrally Buoyant Strain of E. coli
James received his Bachelor’s in EPO Biology and is now pursuing a career in Aerospace Medicine. His research focused on non-invasively monitoring lag phase of E. coli in simulated weightless conditions through the use of a clinostat. He also developed an optical density monitoring apparatus for use during clinorotation to aid in data collection for his research. last updated May 2005
Funding: URAP (2003-2004), UROP (2004-2005)
Galina Dvorkina
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Characterizing the Influence of Gravity on Bacterial Sedimentation and Motility
Galina is double majoring in Aerospace Engineering and EPO Biology. Her research objectives for this project are focused on measuring bacterial sedimentation rates in order to empirically determine cell density as a function of velocity, cell size and known fluid properties. Galina successfully designed and assembled a vertical video microscopy system and validated its general performance. last updated May 2005
Funding: UROP (2004-2005)
Ken Stroud
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences December 2004
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: NASA Johnson Space Center, Sierra Nevada Corp.
Mitigation of Vestibular Disturbances in Piloted Spacecraft
Ken received his B.S. in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1997. Upon graduation, he began working for Wyle Laboratories at the NASA Johnson Space Center in the Systems Development group, and later as a Biomedical Flight Controller (BME) working in the Mission Control Center. In August of 2000, Ken returned to the University of Colorado at Boulder, and in December of 2001 received his M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, with an emphasis on Bioastronautics. During 2002 and 2003, he worked in the Mission Operations group at BioServe Space Technologies, providing console support on the ISS 9A and 11A increments, and the STS-107 mission. Ken’s Ph.D. thesis entails the effects of weightlessness on the vestibular system. Specifically, his dissertation involved the development of countermeasures against vestibular disturbances during space flight using virtual reality and defining spacecraft design requirements. He completed a study on the prediction and prevention of motion sickness and disorientation in a microgravity-like virtual environment using 40 human test subjects at the NASA Johnson Space Center, and investigated the effect of spacecraft and cockpit design factors on the ability to safely land a piloted reentry vehicle. last updated June 2012
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship-JSC NAG9-1438 (2002-2005), AIAA Willy Z. Sadeh Award (2002)
Tom Hatfield
PhD Aerospace Engineering Sciences December 2004
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Wyle Life Sciences, NASA Johnson Space Center
Quantitative Ultrasound Technology Development for Space Flight Biomedical Applications
Tom obtained his BS in Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1992 and his Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering at the University of Houston in 1998. From 1992 to 1996 he also worked in various engineering roles for IBM, Loral, and Lockheed Martin supporting the shuttle and station programs, as well as the Mission Control Center in Houston. His MS research involved computer modeling for the Advanced Life Support program at the Johnson Space Center. These experiences led Tom to move to Colorado to pursue graduate studies at CU in 1999. In the summer of 2002, he began to work full-time on his PhD thesis under a NASA GSRP fellowship. As doctoral candidate, Tom's research focused on using ultrasound to determine cross-sectional area of limb muscle and bone, and included demonstrating the potential of ultrasound for measurements during spaceflight. last updated January 2005
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship-JSC NAG9-1468 (2002-2004), AIAA Foundation Graduate Award (2003)
Juniper Jairala
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences December 2004
Post-Graduation: Co-Op at NASA JSC (Spring 2005), Internship at Blue Origin (Summer 2005), PhD student at UCLA (Fall 2005), X-Prize Foundation, SpaceX, Andrews Space, Jacobs Engineering at NASA JSC
Effects of Space Flight on Sleep
Juniper graduated from Cornell University with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. She then worked for Universal Studios and Warner Brothers building theme parks in Japan and Spain. Her passion for space exploration returned her the U.S., where she worked at NASA Dryden Flight Research Center as a Flight Operations Engineer. Finally, realizing that her true quest was to help improve spaceflight for humans, and that she needed a graduate degree to do this, Juniper came to the CU Boulder Aerospace Engineering Sciences Bioastronautics Research Group. Her primary research interests are astronaut physiology and space medicine/countermeasures. She worked in the Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory in CU's Integrative Physiology department, putting electrodes on people's heads and watching their brainwaves while they sleep. She hopes to figure out, through the use of microgravity analogs, ways to improve how astronauts sleep in space. last updated October 2008
Funding: GEM Fellowship; National Institute of Health (NIH) Initiative for Minority Student Development (IMSD) (2003), NIH Fellowship (2005)
Jackson Lee
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Served as a member of the Peace Corps in the Philippines, PhD student at CSM
Hydrogen Recovery from Spacecraft Biomass Waste
Jackson received a BSME in mechanical engineering from Rice University in 2002. His interests are in the area of Advanced Life Support (ALS) for manned spacecraft, in particular, the applications of environmental microbiology and biotechnology in ALS. He has worked previously with BioServe Space Technologies and Lockheed-Martin in manned spaceflight and ALS activities. His thesis involved an experiment examining the use of photoheterotrophic bacteria in a photofermentation hydrogen production scheme for a mars/ lunar base for his MS thesis. This project was jointly supported by researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado. last updated October 2007
Funding: NASA GSRP Fellowship-JSC NAG9-1555 (2003-2004), Beverly Sears Graduate Student Grant (2004), NSF EAPSI Fellowship to Japan (2004)
Markus Czupalla
MS Aerospace Engineering Sciences 2003
Advisor: Dr. David Klaus
Post-Graduation: Dipl.Ing (FH) AcUAS (Aug 2004)- Advisor: Dr. Gerda Horneck, PhD TUM (2001)-Advisor: Dr. Ulrich Walter, employed since 2004 with Kayser-Threde as structural and thermal systems engineer for space applications, Professor-Aachen University of Applied Sciences (2016)
Spacecraft Advanced Life Support Systems
Markus received his Diplom (FH)/BS in Aerospace Engineering from the Aachen University of Applied Sciences (AcUAS). As an undergraduate he dealt mainly with the mechanical design, analyses and optimization of lightweight structures. Being interested in human spaceflight Markus continued his education in 2002 in the Bioastonautics program at CU, where he completed his MS in 2003 (see Funnel Article, p.30). At CU Markus developed an interest in Life Support Systems (LSS) being part of the ASEN 5116 Spacecraft Life Support Systems focusing on the conceptual design of physio/chemical LSS. Markus continued his research investigating bioregenerative LSS from 2003 to 2004 at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Cologne. He conducted further LSS research as member of the Project Boreas team where he was responsible for the conceptual design of a Mars North Pole LSS. The Project Boreas report was shortlisted for the 2007 Sir Arthur Clarke Award in the category of "Best Written Presentation". Having explored the state of the art static LSS design approaches, Markus decided to pursue a PhD at the Technische Universität München (TUM) Human Spaceflight Research Group. His PhD research topic is the integrated and dynamic LSS design. For this purpose he is developing a simulation called the Virtual Habitat (V-HAB) which aims at the depiction of transient LSS parameters to allow increased robustness in the early studies of static LSS designs. last updated September 2016
Funding: Fulbright Scholarship
Additional Info: Aachen University of Applied Sciences Highest Honors - Best of Class (2004), Finalist in the 2009 ESA Astronaut Selection