Jac Cotttee

Jacinda Cottee is a space life sciences researcher, former airline pilot, who works at the intersection of neuroscience, nutrition and human factors in extreme environment operations notably space. 1 of only 3 Australians to graduate with a Masters from the International Space University, France and founder of the Institute for Space Health and Performance. Her research explores how nutrition and neurophysiology can be harnessed to provide neuroprotection, neuroresilience and neuro-optimisation during deep space missions while advancing strategies for life on Earth. Through her work in space lifestyle medicine and astronaut brain health, she is translating lessons from space exploration into solutions for ageing, resilience, and brain health. Her work has been presented at the International Astronautical Congress, the NASA Human Research Program Investigators’ Workshop, where she introduced the first Astronaut Food Choice Behaviour Model.

Before transitioning into space research, Jacinda built a distinguished aviation career spanning two and half decades, logging over 8,000 flight hours. She became the first woman of colour to wear the Qantas pilot uniform and fly a jet. Having navigated both the operational realities of aviation and profound personal reinvention, she now uses her platform to advocate for resilience, representation, and the future of human exploration. Beyond her research, Jacinda is deeply committed to STEM outreach and public engagement as, using her platform through media, schools, industry events, and initiatives (STEM Sisters Ambassador and CSIRO STEM Professional Partner) to inspire the next generation. Recognised as a Nicolas Baudin Laureate, STEM Sisters Ambassador and named #28 of Top 100 Women in Aviation & Aerospace Jan 2026, Jacinda is driven by a singular mission: how nutrition supports physiology to optimise performance, reduce errors, and protect long-term cognitive health during deep space missions.