Pitt researchers presented several ongoing projects and their impact on PA

Pennsylvania Secretary of Policy and Planning Akbar Hossain toured innovative research facilities and met with leaders, faculty and students on the University of Pittsburgh campus on March 20.

Various multidisciplinary stops during the visit highlighted Pitt’s reputation as a full-service research university. Faculty and students showcased several ongoing projects, including medical research with dual applications for space and terrestrial needs.

Beppe Intini, an associate professor in the School of Dental Medicine, and Melanie Königshoff, a professor in the School of Medicine, presented interactive displays of their findings on how to address breathing, bone density and muscle loss in space.

Students of Alan George, R&H Mickle Endowed Chair at the Swanson School of Engineering, and Michael Ramsey, professor of geology and environmental science in the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, demonstrated their role as active research participants and ability to connect to equipment aboard the International Space Station.

And, Kate Flickinger, a research project manager in the Department of Emergency Medicine and Translational Research Institute for Space Health fellow, discussed her work researching ways to prepare humans for long-duration space travel.

Hossain also spent time during the visit connecting with and fielding questions from students. “He was deeply impressed by the creativity of our work and the enthusiasm shared by our students, faculty and staff,” said Rob Cunningham, vice chancellor for research infrastructure.

Photography by Tom Altany. In the Applied Physiology Lab, Kate Flickinger explains her work preparing humans for long-duration space travel to Pennsylvania Secretary of Policy and Planning Akbar Hossain.