Kelle Pido

Kelle Pido is the manager of NASA’s Research Operations and Integration element within the Human Research Program. In this role, she sets strategic requirements for flight and analog research platforms and manages element resources to enable the implementation of research that is key to reducing human exploration of space risks.

Previously, as deputy element manager from 2019 until 2024, she supervised human research studies conducted in spaceflight analogs—NASA’s simulations of life in space. These simulations include the Human Exploration Research Analog, long-duration bedrest studies, and parabolic flight.

Pido started her career at NASA as a space shuttle flight controller. She then supported the International Space Station in several roles, including international integration and agreement development, international payload integration, and safety and mission assurance.

Pido received her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Houston and master’s degrees in Psychology and Business from the University of Houston-Clear Lake.