Pinar Mesci, PhD | Innovative Stem Cell Research in Space

This episode is a robust conversation with Pinar Mesci, PhD, the Senior Program Manager for In-Space Manufacturing at Axiom Space. Our discussion includes her postdoctoral work with Alysson Muotri, PhD, at UC San Diego and her ongoing work leading and facilitating space-based research in low-Earth orbit. Previously, Dr. Mesci was a project scientist at UC San Diego studying human neurodevelopment using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Her career includes experience in translational and biomedical research with a track record of publications in the fields of neuroscience, stem cells, inflammation, Zika virus and coronavirus infections. Dr. Mesci holds a patent for the development of methods to generate functional human brain organoids. In 2021, she received the International Rett Syndrome Foundation (IRSF) Innovation Award for her work studying the immune interactions in Rett Syndrome using iPSCs. Hosted by Bobby Gordon. This episode was recorded Aug. 8, 2025; information presented was current as of the date of recording.