Meet the 2026 Genes in Space Judges!
Next week, our 2026 Genes in Space Finalists will land in Houston, Texas, for the Countdown to Discovery. There, they will present their proposals and find out whose experiment is bound for space next year. That difficult decision lies with our impressive panel of space and science professionals. Get to know our 2026 Genes in Space Judges:
Robert Dennison, M.Ed
Judging focus: Communication and ambassadorship
Robert has taught public school biology for 40 years and has served as an AP Biology consultant for the College Board since 1995. A frequent speaker at national and international conferences, he is known for his unique presentations appearing in character as Charles Darwin. Robert is a past president of the Texas Association of Biology Teachers and has received numerous accolades, including the NABT Outstanding Biology Teacher Award.
Ryan Landon, ISS Research Integration Office
Judging focus: Feasibility and ISS rationale
Ryan serves as Director of the Low Earth Orbit Utilization Office. In this role, she provides executive leadership, strategic direction, and program management for the ISS Research portfolio as well as laying the groundwork for US government research on future commercial LEO destinations. Her work is vital in ensuring that cutting-edge microgravity research is successfully coordinated and executed in orbit.
Dr. Allison Nishitani, miniPCR bio
Judging focus: Biological significance and toolkit use
Allison develops innovative biotechnology activities at miniPCR bio, bringing authentic science experiences into classrooms. She earned a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Harvard and is passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists.
Dr. Kayleigh Ingersoll Omdahl, John Hatch Memorial Prize mentorship winner
Judging focus: Biological significance and experimental design
Kayleigh is a 4-time Genes in Space mentor and is the 2026 John Hatch Memorial Prize winner. She earned her Ph.D. in Immunology from Dr. Leslie Kean's lab at Harvard Medical School. She has continued her role as mentor in her new role as Technical Writing Manager at Mass General Brigham and Women’s Hospital in the lab of Dr. Sean Stowell.
Dr. Kirsten Siebach, Rice University
Judging focus: Experimental design
Kirsten is an Assistant Professor of Planetary Geology at Rice University who earned her Ph.D. in Geology from Caltech. She has served on the science teams for multiple major NASA Mars missions, including the Phoenix Lander and the Curiosity rover. Her current research uses remote sensing and analysis of sedimentary rocks to investigate the history of water on Mars.
