SCIENCE
This project addresses a fundamental problem in space medicine: how to safely and reversibly place mammals into a state of torpor or hibernation. Hibernation is a naturally occurring phenomenon in ground squirrels and other species in which metabolic rate and core body temperature are drastically reduced for extended periods. These adaptations improve survival during energy-scarce winter environments and highlight mechanisms for safe metabolic suppression.
Profile
Name: Hannah Hausmann, Undergraduate Student
Institution: University of Alaska Fairbanks
Major: Biochemistry
Mentor: Kelly Drew, kdrew@alaska.edu
Award: Apprenticeship
Funding Period: 2025 to 2026
Attachment: Hausmann-UAF_Poster.pdf