Gil Cauthorn
About Gil Cauthorn
Gil Cauthorn is a Mission Science Specialist and Ph.D. student at the University of North Dakota’s Department of Space Studies, with a background in biology and extensive experience in astrobotany research and education.
Gil Cauthorn: Mission Science Specialist
Gil Cauthorn serves as a Mission Science Specialist. With a focus on astrobotany, Cauthorn is deeply involved in the research and development of plant life support systems for future space missions. His role encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including the coordination of educational programs and research initiatives in the field of astrobotany.
Gil Cauthorn: Academic Background and Expertise
Gil Cauthorn is currently a Ph.D. student at the University of North Dakota’s Department of Space Studies. He holds a Master’s of Science degree in biology from Clemson University. Cauthorn also has an educational licensure in Biological Education from the Florida State Board of Education and is the first international educator to hold a National Specialist in Sciences and Education licensure in Japan.
Gil Cauthorn: Co-founder and Lead Program Developer of AIRI
Gil Cauthorn is the co-founder and lead program developer of the Astrobotany International Research Initiative (AIRI). His role includes managing all astrobotany research and education programs, with a focus on developing plant life support systems for space missions. Cauthorn's research projects include gravitropic studies of plants in microgravity and the development of bioregenerative agricultural systems.
Gil Cauthorn: Teaching and Curriculum Development
In addition to his research, Gil Cauthorn is an international baccalaureate Biology teacher in Osaka, Japan. He is responsible for the development of science curriculum, managing laboratory spaces, and coordinating between the Japanese National Curricular Program, International Baccalaureate, and NGSS. He has played a significant role in developing new international baccalaureate world schools in Kobe and Osaka, Japan.
Gil Cauthorn: Research Contributions
Gil Cauthorn's research includes gravitropic studies of plants in microgravity, the development of plant life support systems, and the epigenetic multigenerational survey of plants grown in microgravity. His work aims to apply astrobiological research for educational purposes and the sustainable integration of novel bioregenerative agricultural systems. These initiatives are directed towards future space missions and addressing global challenges like world hunger and environmental impacts of agriculture.