MBRSC and MBRU collaborate to offer Medical & Research Astronaut Training (MRAT) Program - Dubai Health
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The Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) have initiated a landmark specialized training program in cell culture techniques for Emirati astronauts. This strategic initiative will equip astronauts to conduct groundbreaking research experiments, driving advancements in human health and equipping the nation’s space pioneers with the critical expertise needed for future missions.
Under the mentorship of leading experts at MBRU, three Emirati astronauts—Hazzaa AlMansoori, Astronauts Office Manager at MBRSC, Nora AlMatrooshi, and Mohammad AlMulla—successfully completed the intensive program. The rigorous training encompassed fundamental cell culture techniques, essential for biological research that involves maintaining and growing cells outside their original environment. Additionally, they underwent specialized glovebox training, a critical component that ensures safe and effective scientific experimentation in the unique environment of space.
The training program not only highlights the exceptional facilities and expertise available at MBRU but also marks a significant milestone in the UAE's journey to becoming a leader in space exploration and research. By equipping Emirati astronauts with these vital skills, the UAE is poised to make substantial contributions to the global scientific community, driving forward the frontiers of space and health research.
Over the course of the training, the astronauts engaged in lectures and hands-on practical sessions, covering the basics of mammalian cell culture, tissue culture laboratory setup, and the use of various laboratory equipment and reagents. The astronauts also practiced essential techniques such as pipetting, media preparation, cell viability assessment, cell counting, media changing, cell passing, and cell freezing and thawing. Additionally, they received specialized training on using the Glovebox and conducting independent practice under supervision, including troubleshooting and dealing with unexpected situations.
Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Deputy CEO and Chief Academic Officer of Dubai Health and Provost of MBRU, said, "Life sciences research in space is playing an ever-important role in advancing the future of patient care. This partnership with the MBRSC reflects the UAE's commitment to space exploration, and we are honored to be a part of it. We are proud to empower our Emirati astronauts with the necessary skills to conduct groundbreaking research, help accelerate scientific discovery, and also contribute to advancing health for humanity."
Adnan AlRais, Assistant Director General - Space Operations and Exploration Sector, MBRSC, said, “We are proud of our astronauts' achievements and remain committed to supporting their development as they pave the way for the next generation of space explorers. Our strategic partnerships with institutions like MBRU are crucial in ensuring that our astronauts are at the forefront of scientific research and technological advancements, ultimately contributing to the UAE's vision of becoming a leading nation in space exploration and research.”
Hazzaa AlMansoori, Astronauts Office Manager, MBRSC, said, “We trained on the process of stem cell transplantation and how to use laboratory tools in space, which will serve us in future space missions to the Moon and Mars. Our collaboration with MBRU is a crucial step in ensuring we are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in our roles as astronauts and ambassadors of the UAE’s growing presence in space exploration."
Astronaut Nora AlMatrooshi, describing the hands-on experiences in the laboratory, said, “We delved into the intricate process of thawing and freezing cells, gaining practical skills in handling them using various laboratory equipment. This training has allowed us to further develop our scientific skills and understanding.”
Astronaut Mohammad AlMulla said: “Our training was composed of several distinct stages. We began by learning about different types and classifications of cells, including their growth patterns and preservation methods. Furthermore, we received hands-on training in cell division and storage, preparing us for future missions.”
Dr. Mohamed Jamal, Stem Cell Researcher and Lead for the MRAT Program at MBRU said, “We were honored to collaborate with MBRSC and contribute to the UAE’s space ambitions during the thorough the program. Building on our current collaboration we have developed a program to equip the astronauts with the essential skills and knowledge to perform cutting-edge research in the field of stem cells and molecular biology. The astronauts demonstrated remarkable dedication and enthusiasm throughout the training. We hope that this program will inspire more young Emiratis to pursue careers in STEM fields and join the national efforts to advance space discovery and scientific innovation.”
The program builds on MBRU’s growing legacy of supporting space travel in the UAE, with Dr. Hanan Alsuwaidi, Dubai Health's Chief Business Officer, serving as flight surgeon for UAE astronauts H.E. Dr. Sultan Saif AlNeyadi and Hazzaa AlMansoori who conducted research projects from MBRU aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, welcomed the international crew of Expedition 69, the 69th long-duration expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), during their UAE tour.
The event took place at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and was attended by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) team led by His Excellency Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General of MBRSC, besides the Dubai Health team, including students and scientists who had been working closely with the MBRSC and Emirati astronaut Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi on research projects aboard the ISS. Dr. Hanan Alsuwaidi, Chief Business Officer of Dubai Health and the UAE’s first flight surgeon, was reunited with the crew.
Expedition 69 showcased the collaborative benefits of space exploration, bringing together seasoned astronauts from around the globe including Roscosmos’s Sergey Prokopyev, Dmitri Petelin and Andrey Fedyaev, NASA’s Frank Rubio, Stephen Bowen and Woody Hoburg, along with Dr. Al Neyadi, who undertook the longest Arab space mission in history, and Hazza Al Mansoori, the UAE's first astronaut and the Increment Lead of Expedition 69.
His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of MBRU, expressed immense delight in welcoming the astronauts. “We are proud to host the distinguished crew of Expedition 69 that includes Emirati astronauts Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi and Hazzaa Al Mansoori. This historic gathering of all eight astronauts in the UAE is a grand moment for our nation and today’s visit highlights our longstanding relationship with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre in our commitment to advancements in science and fostering a knowledge-based economy.
“We are proud of the groundbreaking work and the impact of Emirati astronauts Sultan Al Neyadi and Hazzaa Al Mansoori, who have inspired our young generation to dream big and believe that the sky is no longer the limit. Their remarkable efforts will shape the future of space exploration,” HE Dr. Sharif said.
His Excellency Al Marri said: “We thank Dubai Health for hosting the crew of Expedition 69 and our astronauts for this event. The collaboration with MBRU and the invaluable contributions of Dr. Hanan Alsuwaidi, the UAE's first flight surgeon, have been fundamental in ensuring the health and safety of our astronauts. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to pioneering medical advancements that not only benefit space exploration but also enhance healthcare on Earth. We hope today’s session inspired the younger generation to pursue space exploration and also instills in them the spirit of human curiosity and resilience that propels us towards a brighter future."
The event offered a unique meet-and-greet opportunity with all eight astronauts of Expedition 69, who returned to earth after a historic space exploration recently. The crew shared anecdotes about their experiences, discoveries, and the bond that developed during the course of their mission. The astronauts also toured MBRU upon the conclusion of the event, spending time at the Simulation Center and the Space Lab and interacting with students from the Space Medicine Club.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) announced the signing of an agreement with Dubai Health to cooperate in the provision of an optimum environment to ensure the health and safety of astronauts, in addition to enhancing innovation in health sciences. The agreement was signed by H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, and H.E. Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO, Dubai Health, at the Centre’s headquarters recently.
H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, said, “The health and safety of our astronauts are paramount, and this agreement will ensure that they receive the best possible care before, during, and after their missions. In the rapidly evolving space sector, collaboration is the way forward. By integrating our efforts with Dubai Health, we are not only enhancing the well-being of our astronauts but also pushing the boundaries of space healthcare and driving innovation in health sciences. This partnership not only strengthens our capabilities but also underscores the UAE’s commitment to pioneering advancements in space and health technologies.”
H.E. Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO, Dubai Health, said, “Emirati astronauts are a source of national pride and a significant asset for the UAE in advancing knowledge, scientific capabilities, as well as raising our great country's profile on a global stage. At Dubai Health, we are proud to play a direct role in ensuring the health and safety of our astronauts by offering an environment for quality healthcare, providing comprehensive health assessments and supporting the monitoring of health during space missions.”
He further commented, “This agreement aligns with our strategic objectives, encompassing key pillars of care, learning and discovery to elevate the standard of care and to advance health for humanity, whilst helping to strengthen our nation’s healthcare and space capabilities.”
The agreement outlines a range of initiatives by MBRSC to ensure the health and well-being of astronauts. In cooperation with Dubai Health, the Centre will conduct comprehensive health assessments for astronauts prior to mission deployment, including medical examinations, screenings, and evaluations to ensure fitness for space travel.
Furthermore, MBRSC will provide astronaut training programs in collaboration with Dubai Health, ensuring that astronauts are adequately prepared for health-related protocols and emergencies, in addition to integration and exchange of health data with healthcare providers for comprehensive astronaut care. Both entities will also work together to enhance medical technologies and methodologies related to space healthcare, fostering continuous improvement.
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