Dr. Thomas H. Zurbuchen, also known as ‘Dr. Z’ in the space community, is a professor and leader of Space Programs at ETH Zurich. As NASA’s head of science from 2016 to 2022, he oversaw the launch of 37 science missions and initiated 54 projects, including the James Webb Space Telescope and Mars Ingenuity helicopter.

He holds an MS and PhD in physics/astrophysics from the University of Bern and spent two decades at the University of Michigan, where he founded the highly regarded Center for Entrepreneurship. His achievements have earned him memberships and awards, including the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences, the NASA Outstanding Service Medal, and the Presidential Rank Award – highlighting his impact on space exploration and global cooperation in advancing space science.