The University of Central Florida is launching an ambitious space medicine research program aimed at developing specialized training for students in various fields such as medicine, nursing, engineering, computer science, and optics and photonics. Leading this initiative is Emmanuel Urquieta, a renowned expert in space medicine.

Previously the chief medical officer at the NASA-funded Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH) at Baylor College of Medicine, Urquieta will now serve as the vice chair for aerospace medicine in UCF's Department of Internal Medicine and as an associate professor.

The Importance Of Space Medicine Research

"Dr. Urquieta is a recognized leader in space medicine," states Deborah German, vice president for health affairs and dean of the College of Medicine. "Under his guidance, UCF will exemplify interdisciplinary medical research, benefiting both space travelers and people on Earth." UCF’s proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and the opportunity for cross-disciplinary collaboration among 13 colleges make it an ideal hub for space medicine research.

Urquieta highlights the prime location of UCF for studying the health effects of human space flight. The space industry is increasingly focusing on health challenges posed by space travel, such as radiation exposure, the impact of zero gravity on muscles and bones, eye health, and space motion sickness. Research in these areas not only aids astronauts but also leads to medical advancements on Earth.

For example, studies on stress and oxidation in space could lead to new anti-aging treatments on Earth. Research on radiation exposure can benefit cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. Moreover, developing medical technologies for space can enhance healthcare in remote and underserved areas on Earth. Telehealth, initially created for astronauts, played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Developing A Space Medicine Curriculum

Urquieta aims to create a robust space medicine curriculum at UCF, benefiting students in diverse fields such as medicine, nursing, engineering, computer science, and optics and photonics. This interdisciplinary program will produce experts who can collaborate to maintain the health of space travelers.

Urquieta plans to establish a master’s degree in space medicine, which would be unique in the nation after the closure of a similar program at Wright State University. Additionally, he envisions a fully accredited aerospace medicine residency program to further bolster UCF's expanding graduate medical education offerings.

Inspired by his family's background in aerospace engineering and piloting, Urquieta holds an M.D. from Universidad Anahuac Mexico Norte in Mexico City and has extensive experience in spaceflight training, including a 30-day stint in NASA’s Human Exploration Research Analog.

Edward Ross, chair of the Department of Medicine, believes Urquieta's hiring will significantly advance UCF’s role in space medicine. "This propels us to the forefront of aerospace medical research and education," he says. "We can enhance the safety of space travelers and apply those medical discoveries to benefit people on Earth."

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