UK Astronaut Scholar Conducts Research In Madagascar

Jaesylin Stephens presented her findings at the Astronaut Scholar Technical Conference in Houston

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Jaesylin Stephens, a senior biology major at the University of Kentucky, conducted research in Madagascar last summer as an Astronaut Scholar. She presented her findings at the Astronaut Scholar Technical Conference in Houston, where she had the opportunity to meet and discuss her cross-disciplinary research with fellow Astronaut Scholars and scientists.

Why it matters

Stephens' experience in Madagascar helped drive home the importance of her research and the 'why' behind it. As an undergraduate, she was able to collaborate with an international team of academics and local naturalists, collecting data in one of the earth's most biodiverse but fragile ecosystems, which underscored the significance of biological research for both science and conservation.

The details

Stephens, who is also a student in the Lewis Honors College, studies biology due to her fascination with the natural world. During her time in Madagascar, she was able to see bamboo lemurs in their natural habitat, an experience she never imagined she would have. The Astronaut Scholarship, which is awarded to students studying STEM fields, enabled Stephens to conduct research overseas and present her findings at the Astronaut Scholar Technical Conference in Houston.

  • Stephens conducted research in Madagascar last summer.
  • She presented her findings at the Astronaut Scholar Technical Conference in Houston last year.

The players

Jaesylin Stephens

A senior biology major in the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences and an Astronaut Scholar.

Mariah Donohue

A professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Kentucky who invited Stephens into undergraduate research, making it possible for her to conduct research overseas.

David Weisrock

A professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Kentucky who invited Stephens into undergraduate research, making it possible for her to conduct research overseas.

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What they’re saying

“I never dreamed I'd get to see it with my own eyes. I'll never forget finding bamboo lemurs on my first day in the field. I couldn't believe I was just a few feet below such a unique, rare and endangered animal in its natural habitat.”

— Jaesylin Stephens (Mirage News)

“At the conference and symposium, I was honored to meet an extraordinary community of scientists, engineers and astronauts. I was thrilled to discuss cross-disciplinary research with fellow Astronaut Scholars who share my passion for scientific discovery.”

— Jaesylin Stephens (Mirage News)

“This foundation prepared me to engage in real research with confidence.”

— Jaesylin Stephens (Mirage News)

What’s next

Following graduation in May, Stephens said she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in biology and looks ahead to a career in research.

The takeaway

Stephens' experience in Madagascar as an undergraduate Astronaut Scholar highlights the valuable opportunities available for students to conduct real-world research and present their findings to a community of like-minded scientists and scholars, helping to prepare them for future careers in research and exploration.