UASI Staff

Director of UA Space Institute

Program Manager, UA Space Institute

Chief Scientist

Dr. Walter Harris, Ph.D., serves as the Chief Scientist, playing a pivotal role in investigative research, concept design support, and proposal and review development. His strong commitment to community engagement bridges the gap between scientific research and public outreach, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of our work within the community.

Director, UASI Advanced Technology and Testing Laboratories

Oversees the operation and facilities for the Applied Research Building (ARB) and Mission Integration Laboratory (MIL).

Director, Information Technology

Nic's responsibilities encompass a diverse array of domains, ranging from project management to server architecture, technology operations, and security practices. Effectively steering IT projects from conception to fruition, he ensures their alignment with UASI's strategic objectives and responsiveness to researchers' requirements. Leveraging his knowledge of server architecture, Nic guarantees the establishment of a resilient, scalable computing infrastructure optimized to facilitate research and collaboration.

Programs Finance & Earned Value Management (EVM)

With more than 25 years’ experience in government contracting, contracts performance and financial modeling & reporting, Julie has served various companies in the aerospace and defense industry. She has an exceptional background in Earned Value Management; programs finance and expertise in Enterprise Resource Planning and SAP Financial Systems.

Administrative Associate

IT Project Coordinator
Systems Administrator II

Bryan Barns, the Systems Administrator at the University of Arizona Space Institute (UASI), plays a vital role in supporting researchers and building occupants by ensuring a seamless technology environment. With expertise in Server Management and VMware, he manages both on-premise and cloud environments, optimizing system architecture for efficient computing capabilities. Bryan facilitates flexible and scalable solutions for researchers, maximizing the benefits of cloud technology. Additionally, he focuses on system security and data protection, staying updated on industry standards.

R&D Software Engineer II

Alicia Espinoza is a seasoned software engineer with over two decades of experience in full-stack development, automation, and infrastructure management. Since 2002, she has excelled in optimizing ETL processes, SQL queries, and developing features across diverse sectors. Proficient in cloud technologies such as Azure and AWS, Alicia focuses on continuous integration and data analysis to deliver high-quality solutions that drive business success.

Systems Programmer, Principal

Andrew is a software engineer with more than two decades of experience spanning embedded systems and ground data systems. In more than a decade at the University of Arizona, he has worked on ground data systems for MESSENGER, LRO, OSIRIS-REx, MSL Curiosity, and Mars Odyssey, as well as software for adaptive optics at the MMT Observatory. He completed bachelor's degrees in electrical and computer engineering and Spanish at Carnegie Mellon University and master's degrees in electrical and computer engineer and legal studies at the University of Arizona.

Mission Operations Manager

Karl Harshman earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from the University of Arizona in 1995. He has served as the Science Operations Lead for the OSIRIS-REx mission since 2016, following a three-year tenure as the Science Payload Operations Manager. Over his 25-year career at the University, Karl has contributed to numerous space missions, including Mars Odyssey and the Phoenix Lander.

Assistant Facilities Manager

Sr. Multimedia Specialist

Heather Roper is a Multimedia Specialist, Senior, at UASI, where she leverages her expertise in graphic design and marketing to assist the organization with various creative and graphics-related needs. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communications, Heather brings a robust artistic background to her role, ensuring that all visual content aligns with UASI's branding and communication goals. Her commitment to creativity and excellence makes her an invaluable asset to the team.

Student Worker, Administrative Services