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Dava Newman - Media Lab director and former Deputy Administrator of NASA

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03.04.25
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Overview

Dava J. Newman is a prominent American aerospace engineer, professor, and former NASA Deputy Administrator. Her groundbreaking research in space suit design, human performance in extreme environments, and advanced space technology has significantly contributed to the advancement of space exploration. This timeline highlights key moments in her life and career, showcasing her journey from academic pursuits to influential leadership roles within the space industry.
Main Milestones
Birth and Early Life
1964
Dava Newman was born in Helena, Montana, setting the stage for a life dedicated to exploring beyond earthly boundaries. Her early exposure to the vast landscapes of Montana likely fostered a deep curiosity about the world and the universe beyond.
B.S. Aerospace Engineering, University of Notre Dame
1986
Newman earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Notre Dame. This marked the formal beginning of her engineering career, providing her with a foundational understanding of the principles governing flight and space travel. She later also added a B.S. degree in economics from the same institution, broadening her expertise.
S.M. and Ph.D. in Aerospace Biomedical Engineering, MIT
1989 & 1992
Newman continued her education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), earning both a Master of Science (S.M.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Aerospace Biomedical Engineering. Her doctoral work focused on human adaptation to space environments, paving the way for her pioneering research in space suit technology and human performance in extreme conditions. She also received a Master of Science in Technology and Policy from MIT.
Professor at MIT
1993
Upon completing her Ph.D., Dava Newman joined the faculty at MIT as a professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics. This position allowed her to pursue her research interests, mentor future generations of aerospace engineers, and establish herself as a leading expert in her field. Her contributions to research and education at MIT have been substantial.
BioSuit Development
2000s
Throughout the 2000s, Newman became widely known for her work on the BioSuit, an advanced space suit design that utilizes mechanical counterpressure to provide astronauts with greater mobility and flexibility in space. This innovative approach revolutionized space suit technology and holds significant potential for future space missions. The BioSuit project brought together multidisciplinary fields with a focus on innovative, integrated systems.
NASA Deputy Administrator
2015-2017
In 2015, Dava Newman was appointed as the Deputy Administrator of NASA, the second-highest position in the agency. In this role, she played a critical role in shaping NASA's strategic direction, overseeing its various programs, and advancing the agency's mission of exploration, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. Her time as Deputy Administrator saw renewed focus on exploration beyond low Earth orbit.
Director of the MIT Portugal Program
2021-Present
Following her tenure at NASA, Dava Newman returned to academia and is currently the Director of the MIT Portugal Program. This position allows her to promote international collaboration in science, technology, and innovation, further contributing to the advancement of knowledge and addressing global challenges. She continues to be a valuable asset to the MIT community.

Other Themed Timelines

Awards and Recognition TimelineAwards and Recognition TimelineEarly Life and Education TimelineEarly Life and Education TimelineMIT Professorship and Research TimelineMIT Professorship and Research TimelineNASA Deputy Administrator TimelineNASA Deputy Administrator TimelineReturn to Academia and Current Activities TimelineReturn to Academia and Current Activities TimelineSpacesuit Technology Development TimelineSpacesuit Technology Development Timeline