Submissions open for NASA STAR-7 Programme (Malta)

Deadline: 31-Jul-2026

The NASA STAR-7 Programme 2026 offers researchers, principal investigators, and postdoctoral scholars an opportunity to develop expertise in space biosciences, spaceflight experiments, and research collaboration. The virtual programme will run from September 2026 to February 2027 and will provide training on designing and conducting biological research experiments using NASA and commercial spaceflight platforms.

About the NASA STAR-7 Programme

NASA STAR-7 (Spaceflight Training and Research Programme) is a research development initiative designed to support scientists interested in advancing spaceflight-related biological research.

The programme focuses on preparing researchers to develop, design, and conduct spaceflight experiments using available NASA and commercial space platforms.

The initiative encourages international collaboration and strengthens the global space biosciences research community.

Programme Objectives

The STAR-7 programme aims to:

• Build capacity in space biosciences research.
• Train researchers in spaceflight experiment development.
• Encourage collaboration between new and experienced space researchers.
• Introduce participants to spaceflight hardware and research opportunities.
• Support future space biology investigations.
• Strengthen international networks in space research.

Key Areas of Focus

The programme covers topics related to:

• Space biosciences.
• Biological experiments in space environments.
• Spaceflight research methods.
• Spaceflight hardware and platforms.
• Research collaboration opportunities.
• Experiment planning and implementation.
• NASA and commercial space research opportunities.

What Participants Will Learn

Participants will gain knowledge about:

• Principles of conducting spaceflight experiments.
• Designing research projects for space environments.
• Preparing biological experiments for flight.
• Using spaceflight hardware.
• Identifying research opportunities.
• Developing collaborations with space biology researchers.

The programme is designed to help researchers transition from theoretical concepts to practical spaceflight research.

Who Is Eligible?

The programme is open to qualified researchers who meet NASA STAR-7 requirements.

Eligible applicants include:

• Principal Investigators (PIs).
• Senior Research Scientists.
• Postdoctoral Scholars.
• Researchers working in space biosciences or related fields.

Applicants must:

• Hold an advanced degree.
• Have an MD, PhD, or equivalent qualification.
• Be affiliated with an eligible organisation.
• Demonstrate interest in space bioscience research.

Eligible Affiliations

Applicants must be affiliated with one of the following:

• Academic institutions.
• Commercial entities.
• International organisations.
• NASA Centres.
• Government agencies.

The programme welcomes participants from the United States and other eligible countries.

International Participation

International researchers are encouraged to apply.

Priority encouragement is given to researchers affiliated with countries that are part of the Artemis Accords.

The programme supports global collaboration in space research and promotes international participation in future space exploration activities.

Special Requirement for Postdoctoral Scholars

Postdoctoral applicants must provide:

• A reference letter from their research supervisor.

The letter should support the applicant’s participation and research background.

Programme Format and Timeline

The STAR-7 programme will be delivered:

• Format: Fully virtual.
• Duration: September 2026 to February 2027.
• Schedule: Weekly two-hour online sessions.

Participants can complete the programme remotely without travel requirements.

Funding and Financial Support

The programme does not provide funding for participants.

Important details:

• No participant funding is available.
• NASA will not cover financial costs.
• There are no programme fees.
• No travel expenses are required because the programme is virtual.

However, participants will receive information about:

• Future funding opportunities.
• Space research collaborations.
• Potential pathways for developing experiments.

Why Participate in NASA STAR-7?

The programme provides researchers with opportunities to:

• Expand knowledge of space biosciences.
• Connect with international researchers.
• Learn NASA research approaches.
• Understand space experiment development.
• Explore future spaceflight research opportunities.
• Build professional networks in the space science community.

It is particularly valuable for researchers interested in contributing to future space exploration missions.

How the Programme Works

The participation process includes:

1. Applying through the NASA STAR-7 application process.
2. Completing weekly online training sessions.
3. Learning spaceflight research methods.
4. Engaging with researchers and experts.
5. Exploring collaboration and experiment opportunities.

How to Apply

Applicants should:

1. Confirm they meet STAR-7 eligibility requirements.
2. Prepare academic and professional information.
3. Submit an application to NASA.
4. Complete any required supporting documents.
5. Await programme selection results.

Applicants should ensure their application demonstrates:

• Research expertise.
• Interest in space biosciences.
• Relevant academic qualifications.
• Institutional affiliation.

Requirements for Malta-Based Applicants

Researchers from Malta who apply to NASA are requested to notify Xjenza Malta after submitting their application.

The notification email should include:

• Applicant’s name.
• Organisation name (if applicable).
• Confirmation that the NASA application has been successfully submitted.

This allows Xjenza Malta to track participation from Malta’s research and innovation community.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants should:

• Clearly explain their interest in space biosciences.
• Highlight relevant research experience.
• Demonstrate potential for future spaceflight experiments.
• Include strong academic and professional credentials.
• Explain how the programme supports their research goals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Applying without an advanced degree.
• Failing to provide required references.
• Submitting incomplete applications.
• Not explaining their research interest.
• Assuming NASA provides financial support.
• Applying without relevant institutional affiliation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the NASA STAR-7 Programme?

NASA STAR-7 is a virtual training and collaboration programme that prepares researchers to develop and conduct spaceflight experiments in space biosciences.

Who can apply for STAR-7?

Principal Investigators, Senior Research Scientists, and Postdoctoral Scholars with advanced degrees and relevant affiliations can apply.

Is the programme funded?

No. NASA does not provide financial support, and there are no participation fees or travel requirements.

When will the programme take place?

The programme will run virtually from September 2026 to February 2027 through weekly two-hour online sessions.

Can researchers outside the United States apply?

Yes. International researchers who meet eligibility requirements can apply.

Do postdoctoral researchers need additional documents?

Yes. Postdoctoral Scholars must provide a reference letter from their supervisor.

What research areas does STAR-7 focus on?

The programme focuses on space biosciences, spaceflight experiments, biological research in space environments, and related collaboration opportunities.

Conclusion

The NASA STAR-7 Programme 2026 provides an important opportunity for researchers to develop skills in space biosciences and connect with the global space research community. Through virtual training, expert guidance, and collaboration opportunities, the programme helps prepare scientists to contribute to future spaceflight experiments and advances in space biology research.

For more information, visit Xjenza Malta.