Pascale Ehrenfreund

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.