Appointment of Dr. Rachael Seidler as Director of the UF Astraeus Space Institute

David Norton, Vice President for Research

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Rachael Seidler, Ph.D., as Director of the University of Florida’s Astraeus Space Institute, effective October 1, 2025. Dr. Seidler is a Professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology and has served as Deputy Director of the Astraeus Space Institute since 2024. She is internationally recognized for her research in spaceflight operations, neuroscience, and aging, with nearly 200 peer-reviewed publications and extensive experience leading interdisciplinary teams. Dr. Seidler’s work has been supported by NASA, NIH, NSF, and other major agencies, and she has held leadership roles in national and international scientific societies.

As Director, Dr. Seidler will lead the Institute in its mission to foster interdisciplinary research and collaboration across UF and with external partners, accelerating the exploration of space and expanding UF’s impact in space exploration, from humans visiting the Moon and Mars to using spacecraft to examine deep space phenomena. 

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Seidler on this important leadership role and in supporting her as she leads the Astraeus Space Institute into its next chapter of innovation and impact.