The Joe Kerwin Award is presented for advances in the understanding of human physiology during spaceflight and innovation in the practice of space medicine to support optimal human health and performance in space. It is sponsored by KBR.

Michael Schmidt, M.Phil., Ph.D., Ph.D., FAsMA, is this year’s recipient of the Joe Kerwin Award. He is being recognized for his leadership in the field of human spaceflight across seven areas: 1) multiscale omics in space; 2) precision medicine; 3) pharmacogenomics; 4) artificial intelligence via the Astronaut Digital Twin Program; 5) co-founded the Human Research Program for Civilian Spaceflight; 6) author of foundational works advancing the field; and 7) co-developing space biomedical educational programs. He is guiding human biomedical educational programs on the AIAA Space Exploration Integration and Technical Committee, as well. Additionally, he worked closely with colleagues to revitalize the Life Sciences and Bioengineering Branch (LSBEB) of the Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA) and continues to support its professional and social life.