Hayley Nicole Brawley
Dr. Hayley Brawley is a Senior Research Scientist with the Clinical and Operational Space Medicine Innovation Consortium (COSMIC) at JBSA, where she applies her expertise in biochemistry, analytical instrumentation, and data analysis to support both military and NASA research initiatives. She has extensive experience in HPLC, IC, MS, and ICP-MS techniques, and her work contributes to advancing space medicine and nutritional biochemistry in operational environments. Prior to joining COSMIC, she worked at NASA Johnson Space Center in the Nutritional Biochemistry Laboratory. She earned her Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Texas A&M University and completed postdoctoral training at both academic and government institutions. Throughout her career, Hayley has developed a strong foundation in project coordination and laboratory management, supporting complex scientific studies across multiple institutions. Her research spans bioinorganic and bioanalytical chemistry, nutritional biochemistry, and molecular nutrition, with a focus on generating actionable insights for health and performance in unique populations. She has also served in teaching and mentoring roles, fostering the next generation of scientists and encouraging youth engagement in STEM. Outside the lab, Hayley is passionate about travel, fitness, and youth outreach, reflecting her commitment to holistic personal growth and community engagement. Her dedication to scientific excellence, combined with her enthusiasm for inspiring others, underscores her role as both a researcher and mentor in the field of biochemistry and space medicine.
• Texas A&M University
• University of Central Arkansas
• BioAstra Fellowship
• NASA Star-6 Cohort
• Phi Lambda Upsilon
• American Society for Nutrition
• American Chemical Society
• National Postdoctoral Association
• Organization for Space Medicine, Engineering, and Design
• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
• Texas Junior Academy of Science
• Cosmic Leap
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, a strong work ethic, and self-discipline—values my parents instilled in me from a young age. These principles have guided me throughout my education and career in aerospace, helping me stay focused and achieve my goals.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is the importance of perseverance. My mentors at NASA, Drs. Scott Smith Dr. Sarah Zwart, showed me how dedication and persistence open doors, even in challenging situations. Their guidance has inspired my own approach to research, my career goals, and how I tackle opportunities in space medicine.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the STEM fields is to stay persistent and never give up on your dreams. Opportunities may not always come easily, but by continuing to pursue your goals and staying focused, you can build a meaningful and impactful career in this field.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are curiosity, balance, and connection. My husband and I, both scientists, share a love for the outdoors, running, and hiking, and we recently welcomed a dog into our family. Building our new home together has reinforced the importance of partnership, shared goals, and creating a life that reflects both personal and professional fulfillment.
Locations
USAF 59th MDW's Clinical & Operational Space Medicine Innovation Consortium (COSMIC)
San Antonio, TX 78209
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