Chhandak Basu

Dr. Chhandak Basu is a Professor of Biology at California State University, Northridge, and a Visiting Scientist at NASA Ames Research Center. Trained as a plant and microbial biotechnologist, his research explores how plants and microorganisms adapt and survive under environmental stress.

At NASA, Dr. Basu's work focuses on astrobiology and space biology, where he investigates the survival of extremophile microorganisms in planetary analog environments to better understand the potential for life beyond Earth.

In recognition of his commitment to student mentorship, Dr. Basu received the national Biology Mentor Award from the Council on Undergraduate Research in Washington, DC. Through his research and writing, he is dedicated to making the exciting fields of biotechnology, astrobiology, and space biology accessible to students, educators, and the general public.