Spaceflight Instrumentation Professors and Supervisors | ApplySharif

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Kevin A. ShinpaughView profile

Professor

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityUnited States

Kevin A. Shinpaugh is Collegiate Professor in the Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering at Virginia Tech’s College of Engineering. Since 2019 he has led instruction and research in spacecraft design and propulsion, leveraging decades of experience in high-performance computing and space-systems engineering. Education Ph.D., Aerospace Engineering, Virginia Tech (1994) M.S., Aerospace Engineering, Virginia Tech (1989) B.S., Aerospace Engineering, Virginia Tech (1986) Research Focus Dr. Shinpaugh’s scholarship centers on the intersection of high-performance computing (HPC) and space systems engineering . He develops and applies advanced computational techniques to spacecraft design, propulsion analysis, and mission planning. His work spans numerical simulation of complex aerospace systems, optimization of propulsion architectures, and creation of scalable HPC frameworks that enable rapid design iteration for spacecraft and launch vehicles. Publication Trends Across more than thirty refereed papers and design-competition reports, a clear trajectory emerges: early contributions in experimental fluid-mechanics instrumentation (laser-Doppler velocimetry, fiber-optic sensors) evolved into large-scale computational studies of space systems, and most recently into student-led mission-concept designs for CubeSats, lunar exploration, and interplanetary missions. Keywords consistently include spacecraft design, propulsion, deployable structures, and mission architecture. Service & Committees Chair, Virginia Tech HPC User Committee (2004–2011) Member, VT HPC Advisory Board (2007–present) NSF TeraGrid/XSEDE Campus Champion for Virginia Tech (2006–2013) IBM HPC/AI Customer Advisory Council DC (2019–present) Member, VT AOE Seminar Committee (2019–present) Laboratory & Computing Resources Dr. Shinpaugh has long stewarded Virginia Tech’s high-performance computing ecosystem. He directs students and collaborators in leveraging the university’s Advanced Research Computing (ARC) clusters, as well as national facilities through XSEDE and DoD HPCMP, to execute spacecraft-design simulations and propulsion analyses at scale.

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Eliah OverbeyView profile

Assistant Professor

The Institute of World PoliticsUnited States

Eliah Overbey serves as an Assistant Professor of Bioastronautics at the University of Austin (UATX), having previously held a research associate position at Weill Cornell Medicine. Her research focuses on genomic changes in astronauts during spaceflight, with significant contributions to the SpaceX Inspiration4 mission and ongoing work on the Axiom-2 and Polaris Dawn missions. Education: B.S. in Computer Science, UC San Diego Ph.D. in Genome Sciences, University of Washington Research Interests: Dr. Overbey specializes in space medicine, genomics, and astronaut health monitoring. She founded the Space Omics and Medical Atlas (SOMA), the largest repository of molecular data from astronauts, and is instrumental in advancing healthcare systems for space exploration through her role at BioAstra. Professional Roles: Vice Chair of the Cornell Aerospace Medicine Biobank (CAMbank) and Chief Scientific Officer at BioAstra, a nonprofit dedicated to developing astronaut healthcare solutions.

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Jürgen SauerView profile

Professor

University of FribourgSwitzerland

Jürgen Sauer is a Full Professor at the University of Fribourg , affiliated with the Department of Psychology under the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences . With over 120 publications, his research focuses on Human-Machine Interaction , Usability Testing , User Experience (UX) , and Automation Design , particularly in high-stakes environments like X-ray baggage screening and spaceflight simulations . Email: juergen.sauer@unifr.ch Phone: +41 26 300 7622 Address: RM 01 bu. C-1.117, Rue PA de Faucigny 2, 1700 Fribourg Orcid: 0000-0003-2105-1694 His research projects, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (FNS), include: Improving work design for airport security officers (2019-2024): Developed pictorial scales for measuring psychological constructs in security environments. Social stress and support in hybrid teams (2018-2023): Investigated machine-induced social stressors and mitigation through social support. Automation in visual inspection tasks (2014-2018): Examined adaptable automation for baggage screening and system reliability effects. Usability testing effectiveness (2012-2016): Analyzed cultural background impacts and non-usability product features influencing test outcomes. Key contributions include the Luggage Inspection Simulation (LIS) environment for modeling work environments and the development of pictorial usability scales for multilingual applicability. His work bridges ergonomics , human factors , and applied psychology , with notable collaborations with researchers like Adrian Schwaninger and Andreas Sonderegger . His recent publications (2025-2014) analyze: Human-machine performance under false alarms and miscues Social stressor dynamics in hybrid teams Usability scale animation effects Phubbing behavior in professional contexts Accessible website design for non-disabled users

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Rich WhittleView profile

Assistant Professor

University of California, DavisUnited States

Dr. Rich Whittle is an Assistant Professor in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of California, Davis, leading the Bioastronautics and eXploration Systems (BXS) Laboratory within the Center for Space Flight Research (CSFR). His work focuses on understanding human physiological responses to space environments and developing technologies to enhance spaceflight safety and efficiency. Education: PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University MSc in Astronautics and Space Engineering, Cranfield University PGDip in Strategic Management and Leadership, Stratford Business School MA/MEng in Engineering, University of Cambridge Research interests include space physiology, human-systems engineering, and exploration systems design. Key themes involve cardiovascular responses to gravity, virtual reality applications for astronaut training, and countermeasures for long-duration missions. His lab investigates ocular perfusion, metabolic modeling in altered gravity, and lunar habitat safety concepts. Recent publications analyze ocular pressure dynamics, gravitational stress impacts on cardiovascular systems, and virtual reality's role in mission resilience. His work bridges clinical data, engineering systems, and mission-critical design. Awards: Fellow of the British Interplanetary Society (BIS) Advising and grants: While specific student names are unlisted, his lab actively collaborates on NASA-funded projects. Research focuses include military recruit injury prevention and pandemic epidemiology modeling (e.g., NYC's 2020 data). Dr. Whittle leads the BXS Lab and contributes to the CSFR, fostering interdisciplinary teams in space systems engineering and human factors. His prior military service (2009–2023) as a British Army officer informs his focus on operational readiness and mission-critical decision-making in extreme environments.

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Luca PolloniniView profile

Associate Professor

University of HoustonUnited States

Luca Pollonini, Ph.D. , is an Associate Professor at the University of Houston within the Cullen College of Engineering , Department of Engineering Technology. He leads the Optical Bioimaging Lab , focusing on biomedical optics, cortical hemodynamics, and tissue oxygenation monitoring. His research spans wearable sensors, traumatic brain injury (TBI) studies, and early detection of pressure ulcers via diffuse optical imaging. Education: Ph.D. in Information Engineering, University of Brescia, Italy (2004) M.S. in Electrical Engineering, University of Brescia, Italy (2000) Dr. Pollonini's research integrates near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for real-time brain imaging and biomedical signal processing to detect physiological changes. His work on portable optical sensors includes applications for heart failure monitoring, astronaut fingertip injuries, and pressure ulcer prevention. Recent publications highlight his contributions to biomedical device design , TBI cortical connectivity , and cardiac rehabilitation technologies . Awards include the 2001 Best Science Thesis (Lombardy Institute), 2004 ARVO Best Poster , and 2014 Wolff Center Innovation Patent for skin-flap blood-flow monitoring. He serves as an Assistant Affiliate Member at the Houston Methodist Research Institute (since 2014) and mentors postdoctoral and graduate fellows in NSF-funded projects involving diffuse optical imaging and wearable sensor development.

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Javier Martin-TorresView profile

Professor

University of AberdeenUnited Kingdom

Professor Javier Martin-Torres is a Personal Chair in the School of Geosciences at the University of Aberdeen, where he leads research in planetary science, atmospheric physics, and astrobiology. His work focuses on the study of planetary atmospheres, particularly Mars and the Moon, using remote sensing data, modeling, and space instrumentation. University: University of Aberdeen School: School of Geosciences Rank: Professor Email: javier.martin-torres@abdn.ac.uk His research interests include planetary atmospheres, non-LTE modeling, Mars exploration, lunar subsurface studies, astrobiology, and planetary protection. He has made significant contributions to understanding atmospheric chemistry and energy balance in planetary environments, especially through data from missions such as MIPAS, SABER, Chang’E-4, and Mars Science Laboratory. The most recent publications reflect a strong trend in interdisciplinary planetary science, combining remote sensing, geochemistry, machine learning, and mission design. Key themes include Mars surface and atmospheric processes, lunar subsurface structure, life detection technologies, and the development of cleanroom and sampling systems for space missions. His work bridges observational data with theoretical modeling to advance our understanding of planetary environments. Scientific Awards: Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society Professor Martin-Torres has been involved in advising and leading research projects related to planetary exploration and instrumentation. He has contributed to major collaborative grants, particularly in the areas of Mars rover missions, lunar science, and planetary protection. His work often involves international consortia and space agencies, indicating significant grant funding and project leadership. He is actively involved in laboratory and team-based research, including the development of planetary instrumentation, cleanroom facilities, and data analysis pipelines for radar and atmospheric sensors. His team works on integrating machine learning with planetary data interpretation and advancing technologies for future space missions.

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Hametner, BernhardView profile

Lecturer

Vienna University of TechnologyAustria

Prof. Dr.techn. Bernhard Hametner is a Lecturer at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering (E363) within Technische Universität Wien (TU Wien) . His research focuses on arterial pressure dynamics, cardiovascular physiology, and biomedical signal analysis with applications in clinical diagnostics and space medicine. He leads projects involving wearable medical devices, multisensor monitoring systems, and computational models of vascular systems. Key affiliations: TU Wien's Network Lab and collaborative EU projects like VascAgeNet Expertise in pulse wave analysis, vascular aging, and translational biomedical engineering Research Interests: His work spans arterial stiffness quantification, non-invasive cardiac output estimation, and developing methods to detect early cardiovascular dysfunction through waveform analysis. He has pioneered approaches using difference equations for modeling arterial wave reflections and contributed to understanding microgravity's impact on cardiovascular systems. Publications Highlight Trends: Recent work emphasizes clinical applications of wearable devices (2023), AI-driven medical recommendation systems (2022), and space physiology studies (2020-2022). Earlier research focused on computational modeling of vascular dynamics and validation of novel diagnostic methods. Advising & Education: Supervised 8 thesis students (2016-2021) in topics like biomedical signal analysis, machine learning in healthcare, and cardiovascular modeling. Active in training the next generation of biomedical engineers through TU Wien's graduate programs. Labs/Teams: Part of TU Wien's Network Lab, collaborating with international teams on projects like the EU's VascAgeNet initiative. Engaged in multidisciplinary teams combining engineering, medicine, and data science.

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Sean BryanView profile

Research Professor

Arizona State UniversityUnited States

Sean Bryan is an Associate Research Professor at Arizona State University (ASU), part of the School of Earth and Space Exploration. He specializes in developing novel systems and algorithms for remote sensing, wireless communications, and astronomy. Since 2014, he has contributed to major projects such as the SPIDER balloon-borne telescope and the NASA CubeSounder mission, which aims to map atmospheric water vapor for improved weather forecasting. As the survey schedule lead for the SPHEREx IR satellite mission, he plays a key role in advancing astronomical surveys. His education includes a Ph.D. in Physics from Case Western Reserve University (2014) and a B.S. in Physics from the University of Minnesota (2006). His research focuses on cutting-edge instrumentation for cosmic microwave background (CMB) studies, including work on the TolTEC camera and the Simons Observatory. He has pioneered signal processing techniques for wireless communications and balloon-borne telescopes, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary applications in space exploration and Earth science. Bryan’s technical contributions span cryogenic systems, detector arrays, and data analysis pipelines. He leads teams in designing and testing advanced instruments for suborbital and orbital missions, ensuring their readiness for extreme environmental conditions. His work bridges theoretical astrophysics with practical engineering, addressing critical challenges in observational cosmology and atmospheric science.

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David MilesView profile

Assistant Professor

University of IowaUnited States

David Miles is an Assistant Professor at the University of Iowa , specializing in experimental space physics and magnetic field instrument development. His research focuses on space weather , auroral dynamics , and high-resolution magnetic field measurements . Instrument Co-PI for the Cassiope/e-POP spacecraft Developed a specialized furnace for manufacturing space-instrument components Co-created the course The Edge of Space: Mission and Instrument Design for Spaceflight His recent work involves magnetic interference mitigation and nanosatellite magnetometer design, with applications in missions like TRACERS and SelenITA. While no specific awards are mentioned, his contributions to international space programs are highlighted.

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Don PlattView profile

Associate Professor

Florida Institute of TechnologyUnited States

Don Platt is an Associate Professor in the Department of Aerospace, Physics and Space Sciences at Florida Institute of Technology, part of the College of Engineering and Science (COES). He also serves as Director of the Spaceport Education Center. His work focuses on developing advanced avionics, communications systems, rocket propulsion, and astrobiology/biotechnology tools for space exploration. Platt has extensive experience with NASA engineering standards (7150.2A/7120.5) and emphasizes human adaptation to deep space environments, small satellite systems, and interdisciplinary approaches to space challenges. His research spans human deep space exploration , microgravity biotechnology , and high-performance cubesats . Notable projects include the WEISS-SAT1 astrobiology payload and the Virtual Camera system for astronaut-rover collaboration. Platt advocates for integrating human-centered design into space medical infrastructure and risk mitigation systems. Publications (2002–2025) reflect expertise in propulsion systems, astrobiological instrumentation, and space mission design. He has contributed to pioneering work on tissue chip platforms for studying muscle degeneration in space and cooperative AI assistants for deep space missions. Platt's work bridges engineering, biology, and human factors to advance sustainable space exploration technologies. Grants and advising details are not explicitly stated in the provided materials, though his leadership in the Spaceport Education Center suggests active engagement in educational and applied research initiatives. Collaborative projects like UNESCOsat highlight his commitment to global space education and interdisciplinary innovation.

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Stephen K. RobinsonView profile

Professor

University of California, DavisUnited States

Stephen K. Robinson is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of California Davis. His work focuses on turbulence flow physics, experimental techniques, and aerospace applications, with recent emphasis on human-robot interaction, space systems, and autonomous technologies. Research interests include turbulence modeling, advanced instrumentation, 3D visualization, and safety engineering. His work integrates applied aerodynamics with cognitive psychology to address challenges in space exploration, such as haptic interfaces, VR training, and human performance under extreme conditions. Recent publications highlight innovations in spacecraft maintenance, robotic systems, and autonomous glider design. His projects often combine hardware development with simulation tools, such as digital twins and real-time performance metrics for manual spacecraft operations. Robinson collaborates on NASA-related initiatives including EVA training systems, habitat technology, and lunar construction dynamics. He has pioneered solutions for CO2 removal systems, spacesuit glove ergonomics, and radiation-resistant materials for extraterrestrial missions.

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Steven CollicottView profile

Professor

Purdue UniversityUnited States

Steven Collicott is a Professor in the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Purdue University. He holds a B.S. from the University of Michigan (1983), and M.S. and Ph.D. from Stanford University (1984, 1991). His research focuses on experimental fluid mechanics, low-gravity fluid dynamics, and capillary physics, with applications in space propulsion systems and microgravity environments. Collicott has led projects such as the Capillary Fluids Experiment on the International Space Station and pioneered the use of the Surface Evolver code for capillary fluid analysis. Education: B.S., University of Michigan, Aerospace Engineering, 1983 (magna cum laude) M.S., Stanford University, Aeronautics & Astronautics, 1984 Ph.D., Stanford University, Aeronautics & Astronautics, 1991 His research explores capillary-driven fluid behavior in space and terrestrial systems, including propellant management in spacecraft, spray dynamics, and cavitation in high-pressure systems. Collaborations include studies with Rolls-Royce and Purdue’s Civil Engineering School on aeroelastic failures of lighting towers. Collicott has also contributed to sub-orbital research platforms and educational initiatives. His awards include induction into Purdue’s Book of Great Teachers (2008) and the AIAA Special Service Citation (1997). Key projects span fluid interface stability in microgravity, propellant positioning in tanks, and optical diagnostics for flow visualization. He has developed technologies like cryogenic propellant gauging systems and fluidic spray control orifices. Advising & Grants: Advised on capillary fluid experiments and turbine engine projects. Collaborative grants include work with NASA and industry partners on propulsion and fluid dynamics. Labs/Teams: Leads Purdue’s Drop Tower experiments and collaborates with teams at NASA, Blue Origin, and commercial spaceflight entities.

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Pascale EhrenfreundView profile

Research Professor

George Washington UniversityUnited States

Pascale Ehrenfreund is a Research Professor of Space Policy and International Affairs at George Washington University's Space Policy Institute. She concurrently serves as President of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR), Board Director of the Space Foundation, and Co-chair of the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Space. Active in planetary science for three decades, she has contributed to ESA/NASA missions involving the International Space Station and interstellar research. Her education includes a PhD in Astrophysics (University of Paris VII/University of Vienna) and master's degrees in Molecular Biology and Management/Leadership. Notable awards include the Harrie Massey Award (2022), Polarstern Preis (2022), and France's Legion of Honour (2019). She is ranked in Stanford's Top 2% Scientists (2022) and has an asteroid named after her (9826 Ehrenfreund). Research focuses on astrobiology, space policy, and interstellar medium studies. Over 216 peer-reviewed articles and 136 invited reviews highlight expertise in biosignature detection, planetary protection, and space mission instrumentation. Leadership roles include President of the International Space University (2021-2023), Chair of Germany's DLR Executive Board (2015-2020), and President of Austria's Science Fund (2013-2015). Key projects include EDIBLES interstellar band surveys, Mars analogue research (MASE project), and development of the ORIGIN space biosignature instrument. Her work bridges astrophysics, policy, and international collaboration across space exploration initiatives.

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Josephine AllenView profile

Associate Professor

University of FloridaUnited States

Josephine Allen, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Florida. Her research focuses on biomaterials, cell-material interactions, and stem cell differentiation, with particular emphasis on tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. She leads the Allen Research Group, which explores advanced biomaterials and their applications in biomedical contexts. Dr. Allen has a postdoctoral background in Biomedical Engineering from Northwestern University and holds degrees from California State University Northridge. Her work integrates nanotechnology and material science to develop novel biomaterials like DNA-collagen complexes and bioactive hydrogels, with applications in vascular engineering, bone regeneration, and space biology. Notable themes include sex-based biological variables in biomaterial studies and the impact of microgravity on vascular cells. She has pioneered bioreactor systems and magnetoelectric materials for biomedical use, and her research emphasizes ethical considerations such as cell ancestry in bioengineering. Publications span topics like hydrogel design, stem cell niche engineering, and the effects of simulated microgravity on immune cells. Her work bridges material science with clinical applications, aiming to advance regenerative therapies and address unmet needs in vascular and bone tissue engineering.

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Thomas OrlandoView profile

Professor

Georgia Institute of TechnologyUnited States

Thomas Orlando is a Regents' Professor in the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he leads the Orlando Research Group. His work focuses on electron- and photon-stimulated interface and surface processes with applications spanning planetary science, environmental chemistry, and biophysics. He maintains laboratory facilities in the Molecular Science and Engineering Building (MoSE G209C) and collaborates extensively with researchers across Georgia Tech and other institutions. His educational background includes a B.S. from Southampton College, a Ph.D. from State University of New York-Stony Brook, and postdoctoral work at Sandia National Labs and the Institut fur Physikalische Chemie. He was also a NATO Collaborative Research Fellow and Visiting Professor at CNR/University of Rome, La Sapienza from 1997-2000. Professor Orlando's research explores three primary areas: Electron- and Photon-stimulated Interface and Surface Processes, Environmental Chemistry and Planetary Surface Science, and Biophysical Chemistry. His group utilizes state-of-the-art ultra-high vacuum surface science systems with UV-laser sources and low-energy electron beams to study reactions on various substrates. They investigate water-related processes in terrestrial and planetary environments, DNA damage mechanisms, and develop new analytical techniques for mass spectrometry imaging. The group's work spans from fundamental molecular physics to applied areas relevant to atmospheric chemistry, catalysis, and human spaceflight. His recent publications reveal a strong focus on lunar and planetary surface chemistry, particularly water formation and detection on airless bodies like the Moon and Mercury. The research combines experimental surface science with theoretical modeling to understand radiation-induced processes, space weathering effects, and volatile formation mechanisms. Key themes include electron-stimulated desorption, photon-induced reactions, and the role of water in planetary environments. Fellow of the American Physical Society Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science NIH Young Investigator Award (1998) NATO Collaborative Research Fellowship Associate Editor, Journal of Geophysical Research-Planets Professor Orlando has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers who have gone on to successful careers in academia and industry. His research has been supported by multiple grants from NASA, NSF, NIH, and other agencies focused on planetary science, radiation chemistry, and analytical instrumentation development. The Orlando Group maintains state-of-the-art facilities for ultra-high vacuum surface science, microplasma development, and advanced mass spectrometry. The Orlando Research Group operates within Georgia Tech's Electron- and Photon-Induced Chemistry on Surfaces (EPICS) laboratory, which features multiple ultrahigh vacuum systems equipped with electron and photon sources, mass spectrometers, and laser detection systems. The group collaborates with researchers at Argonne National Laboratory's Advanced Photon Source and maintains partnerships with planetary scientists studying data from missions to Mercury, the Moon, and outer solar system objects.

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