Guillaume Gégo

Master Student in Space Studies

KU Leuven, UMons

As a Master’s student in Space Studies (KU Leuven) and holding a Master in Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology (University of Mons), my academic journey has been driven by a fascination with biology in extreme environments, particularly in the context of biotechnology research for sustainable environmental control and life support systems for earth and space applications.

My work lies at the intersection of microbiology and space sciences, with a particular focus on the applications of biological systems for environmental control and life support systems for remote manned stations and space exploration. In this context, I have participated in multiple space-related research projects, including ESA’s MELiSSA project and analog missions in remote settings (e.g. Mars Desert Research Station, Utah, US). Currently, I am expanding my expertise through interdisciplinary training in space law, engineering, and science communication at KU Leuven.

I joined APECS Belgium to foster collaboration among young scientists and promote research on extreme environments, which are vital not only for the study of our planet and its climate, but also for advancing sustainable research in the field of biotechnology for the recycling of waste, both on earth and in space. Through article writing, school/event outreach, and team-building activities, I hope to support APECS Belgium’s mission while creating synergies with other organizations like the Mars Society Belgium and the Young Belgian Society for Microbiology.