Moogega Cooper, a highly accomplished individual, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Hampton University in 2006, marking the beginning of her illustrious academic journey.
She then pursued advanced degrees in Mechanical Engineering, obtaining both a Master's and Doctor of Philosophy degree from Drexel University in 2009, an impressive feat considering she achieved this at the remarkable age of 24.
Following her academic pursuits, Moogega Cooper secured a prestigious Post-Doctoral Researcher position at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL),where she contributed to groundbreaking research on microorganisms found in spacecraft assembly cleanrooms.
Her work at JPL not only focused on the detection and monitoring of microbial life in extreme environments but also explored innovative technologies capable of searching for and tracking the persistence of life in these unforgiving settings.
In 2011, Moogega Cooper transitioned to a full-time employee at JPL, where she continues to apply her expertise in technology development and contamination assessment methodologies to meet the stringent planetary protection requirements for the Mars Sample Return Mission.
Her dedication to advancing our understanding of life in extreme environments and her tireless efforts in ensuring the success of the Mars Sample Return Mission have undoubtedly made a significant impact in the scientific community.
