NASA, University of Texas Expand Research and Workforce Development

NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston and the University of Texas System (UT System) announced the signing of a collaborative Space Act Agreement on Jan. 9, 2026. The agreement expands research and workforce development partnership opportunities across NASA centers and UT System facilities.

The agreement builds upon decades of collaboration between NASA and the UT System by enabling additional research, teaching resources, and educational engagements that support human spaceflight and grow the pipeline of next-generation talent. It will leverage Johnson’s unique capabilities as the hub of human spaceflight and the UT System’s assets across its 13 institutions.

“NASA’s Johnson Space Center has a long history of working with colleges and universities to help us achieve our human spaceflight missions,” said Johnson Center Director Vanessa Wyche. “We are eager to partner with the UT System to collaborate in vital research and technology development initiatives that will enable us to meet our nation’s exploration goals and advance the future of space exploration.”

The agreement also reflects Johnson’s continued evolution through Dare Unite Explore – a set of commitments designed to ensure the center will remain the world leader in human space exploration. Those commitments include expanding partner access to the center’s world-class facilities and expertise, as well as establishing robust workforce development and recruitment programs.

Wyche and UT System Chancellor John M. Zerwas hosted a ceremonial signing event at Johnson. During the event, Wyche and Zerwas, along with the center’s leadership team and the UT System executives and faculty, strategized on potential partnership opportunities and next steps for stakeholders.