Jaime Cordova received his B.S. in Molecular Cell Biology and Physiology from California State University, Long Beach and his Ph.D. in Genetics with a minor in Life Sciences Communication from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where his research focused on the response to varying oxygen levels in bacteria and how those responses have evolved. Additionally, his research partly focused on investigations into the potential habitability of the Venusian clouds. He is an active contributor to the astrobiology research community and was invited to participate in the White House National Space Council “Latinos and Space” briefing in 2023.
Jaime has a long-standing interest in science education and enjoys weaving science communication and community engagement into his scientific practice. He has served as a museum guide at Griffith Observatory since 2016 and as a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador since 2019, bringing space and life sciences to broad public audiences. Committed to reaching Spanish-speaking communities, he founded and hosts “Hablemos de Astronomía,” a Spanish-language astronomy lecture series. His approach to science outreach is grounded in accessibility and cultural inclusion, with a sustained focus on fostering belonging in STEM spaces.
Prior to formally joining BTCI as the Program Coordinator and Instructor, Jaime previously supported BTCI’s alternative spring break programs in partnership with UW-Madison, teacher training programs and summer camps.
