Pavithra Srinivas, Ph.D.

Pavithra Srinivas, Ph.D. is a Systems Engineer, researcher, and technical writer specializing in spacecraft systems engineering, space plasma physics, and space weather prediction systems. Her journey into space systems engineering began during her bachelor’s and master’s studies in Electrical Engineering, where she developed a strong foundation in systems engineering and satellite communications. Fascinated early on by spacecraft design and space research, she pursued opportunities that aligned with her interests. After moving to the United States for her master’s degree, she joined a research group in space plasma physics under her advisor, whose work deeply influenced her academic direction. She secured research grants that supported both her master’s and doctoral studies while strengthening her commitment to research and innovation in space systems.

During her Ph.D. in Systems Engineering at the University of South Alabama, Pavithra focused on space weather modeling and plasma physics, developing advanced predictive systems using the WINDMI model combined with data analytics and machine learning techniques. Her work involved analyzing satellite and ground-based datasets to better understand geomagnetic storms, radiation belt dynamics, and solar wind interactions. She has published multiple research papers and presented at international conferences in space physics and aerospace engineering. Alongside her doctoral research, she participated in NASA STEM programs including L’SPACE, Mission Concept Academy (MCA), and NPWEE, gaining hands-on experience in NASA-style systems engineering processes, documentation standards, and regulatory frameworks. She contributed to mission design projects such as a proxy Mars rover and an exoplanet detection system focused on identifying signatures of potential habitability.

Following her Ph.D., Pavithra developed a space weather prediction system concept using a constellation of satellites and is currently working toward transforming it into an integrated software-hardware platform with plans to pursue a patent. Her academic advisor has encouraged the possibility of forming an LLC following patent approval to engage stakeholders and explore commercialization pathways. She currently serves as a Systems Engineer and Project Manager for WASE, a NASA seed-funded Venus atmospheric exploration project, where she leads payload systems development for atmospheric data collection. The team has completed a successful balloon launch reaching the lower stratosphere and is preparing for a higher-altitude mission targeting 115,000 feet. She dedicates significant time to research, project development, and professional growth, balancing long working hours across research, engineering leadership, and innovation efforts, driven by a strong passion for advancing space exploration and developing impactful aerospace technologies.

• University of South Alabama - PhD, Systems Engineering
• University of South Alabama - MSEE
• Visvesvaraya Technological University - BSEE

• IEEE Honor Society Member
• Tau Beta Pi Member
• Alabama EPSCOR Graduate Research Scholars Program National Science Foundation Grant
• Golden Key International Honor Society
• Graduate Research Assistant-ship
• Sports Management Scholarship

• IEEE
• Golden International Honor Society
• Tau Beta Pi
• Diversion and inclusion committee
• Council of International Student Organization

• Friends of International (helping international students with paperwork
• CISO - Council for International Student Organizations (bringing together different student organizations to help new international students feel welcome
• Fundraising for student athletes and others needing financial assistance)
• Campus events for middle school and high school students to encourage women in STEM