Dominic Tanzillo

Dominic Tanzillo is a third-year medical student at Duke University, currently engaged in groundbreaking research on the risks of clot formation in microgravity as part of the Duke Pathology Study Program. Working under the mentorship of Hematology Chief Thomas Lee Ortel, he investigates potential clotting risks for commercial astronauts, an area of increasing importance following the discovery of a clot in an astronaut's jugular vein during routine checks. Prior to his medical studies, Tanzillo interned with NASA, where he developed a strong interest in space medicine. He has also received the Donald B. Hackel Fellowship in Cardiovascular Pathology to support his research endeavors. In addition to his research, Tanzillo teaches an online course on Space Medicine through Coursera, sharing his expertise and passion for this emerging field with a broader audience. His work aims to enhance our understanding of health challenges faced during deep space travel, contributing to the future of human exploration beyond Earth.