Space Sustainability Research and
Ball Aerospace
I am currently balancing a full-time position at Ball Aerospace while pursuing my PhD in aerospace engineering part-time at the University of Colorado Boulder.
Hi! I'm Katie Melbourne. I grew up in Bettendorf, Iowa and
now work and attend graduate school in Boulder, Colorado.
With a combined interest in technical and political analysis,
my career goals involve working toward the development of space through
engineering innovation, political advocacy, and public education.
This guide is designed for anyone interested in
astronomy, aerospace, or policy to understanding
the variety of opportunities available in the industry.
I am currently balancing a full-time position at Ball Aerospace while pursuing my PhD in aerospace engineering part-time at the University of Colorado Boulder.
During my three summers of research experience, I gained essential technical skills that I will apply to my future work in science and beyond.
I have explored my interests in science policy and in improving the educational experience in STEM classrooms through an internship at NASA and other positions.
Along with public outreach and supporting other women in STEM, I am an active member of the community on campus as a leader in various student-run organizations.
Explore below for a sample of recent articles,
class reports, and guest blog posts
relevant to my mission in STEM.
A summary of my experience advocating for women in STEM and finding a community within the Yale Astronomy Department.
An announcement honoring the womyn of the 2019 Brooke Owens Fellow for Women in Aerospace cohort.
Celebrating women leaders in public policy, the Power in Place Project works to support and increase participation of women in government.
The Yale Scientific Mazagine focuses on communicating important news in STEM on campus.
This research paper for my social science class details the relationship between emotional intelligence and the success of underrepresented students in STEM classrooms.
The Horkheimer/Smith Award through the Astronomical League is given annualy to one student under age 19 who has made a signifcant contribution to outreach in astronomy.
If you have any questions, ideas, or opportunities you would like to discuss, please feel free to leave me a message!