2026 Virtual Space Biosciences Training Course: STAR (Spaceflight Technology, Applications, and Research)
Call for Applications
Number: NNH26ZDA012L
Response Due Date: July 31, 2026 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time in the United States
NASA Acceptance/Declination Notification Date: On or after August 14, 2026
Application Details Short URL:https://go.nasa.gov/ApplySTAR26
NASA invites applications for the 7th cohort of the Spaceflight Technology, Applications, and Research (STAR) virtual training focused on the science and technology behind biological experiments in space. The course will take place virtually from September 2026 – February 2027 (estimated schedule) with two-hour sessions held weekly.
STAR is designed to encourage networking and collaborations in spaceflight technologies, applications, and research across all areas interested in space and biological sciences. This course aims to facilitate the entry of researchers into space biology and preparation for spaceflight experiments using NASA and commercial platforms. The STAR course will cover both fundamental and applied aspects of the field of space biology, as well as practical aspects of preparing for, conducting, and analyzing the results of spaceflight experiments. For prior years’ cohort information, see https://science.nasa.gov/biological-physical/resources/star/.
The STAR-7 application uses the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES) Request for Information (RFI) response structure. For the full text of the STAR RFI, including application submission instructions, visit https://go.nasa.gov/ApplySTAR26. Responses must be submitted electronically using the NSPIRES web site. Any individual who meets the eligibility requirements described the STAR-7 RFI Section III may apply. Please read the eligibility details carefully.
Submitting a STAR application does not guarantee course acceptance. NASA does not award funding for course participation nor pay for the information solicited by the application. Applicants will be notified regarding acceptance/declination via email on or after August 14, 2026. The STAR course is subject to cancellation at any time, even after notification of acceptance.
STAR-7 accepts questions/comment by email only addressed to the STAR Management Team (Dr. Ursula Koniges at NASA Headquarters and Dr. CJ Johnson at NASA Ames) HQ-STAR-Management@mail.nasa.gov. In the email, please state “STAR-7 Application” in the subject line. The STAR mangers may i) respond on an individual basis by email, or ii) may post responses to inquiries of broader interest and general clarification in a “Questions and Answers” (Q&A) document on the NSPIRES landing page for STAR. Anonymity of question/comment submitters will be preserved should a Q&A document be published.