Keynote Speakers
Dr. Alvin L. Smith, Ph.D., PMP, NASA, Mars Sample Return, Sample Receiving Project in the Astromaterials Research & Exploration Sciences (ARES) Division at NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Dr. Alvin L. Smith is the Project Manager for the Mars Sample Return, Sample Receiving Project in the Astromaterials Research & Exploration Sciences (ARES) Division at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. In this capacity, he leads a multidisciplinary team of NASA research scientists, engineers, and astromaterial curation experts in preparing for the Earth-based phase of the Mars Sample Return Campaign (mid to late 2030’s), which includes recovery and transportation of retuned Martian samples to a specialized high containment laboratory, so scientists can conduct detailed analysis, answering major questions about the history and habitability of Mars. Prior to this role, Alvin was a Planetary Protection Engineer and Manager at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where he provided technical oversight to several research & development projects. His contributions have been instrumental in planning flight implementation for Mars 2020 (Perseverance rover), and Europa Clipper.
Alvin joined the NASA family after spending over 20 years as a researcher in high containment laboratories and as a consultant as a biodefense subject matter expert, focusing on the development of medical countermeasures and biodetection capabilities for HIV, poxviruses, Ebola, and other potential biological weapons. Alvin’s expertise in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats has been leveraged by numerous government agencies including Congress, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and the intelligence community.
Dr. Smith is also a strong advocate for university outreach, training programs, and research collaborations. He also has been awarded by the NASA and academic communities for his innovative approaches towards developing collaborative research programs with community colleges, Minority Serving Institutions, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
He holds a doctorate in Medical Microbiology from Howard University, a bachelor’s degree in biology from Talladega College, and is a Project Management Professional.
