NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston and the University of Texas System announced a new agreement designed to broaden research collaboration and strengthen workforce development efforts across NASA centers and UT System facilities.
The two organizations said they signed a collaborative Space Act Agreement on Jan. 9, 2026, to expand partnership opportunities that support human spaceflight and help build a pipeline of next-generation talent. The agreement is intended to build on a long history of collaboration by enabling additional research, teaching resources, and educational engagements, while linking Johnson’s role in human spaceflight with the UT System’s network of 13 institutions.
NASA said the agreement aligns with Johnson’s “Dare Unite Explore” commitments, which include expanding partner access to the center’s facilities and expertise and establishing workforce development and recruitment programs. Johnson Center Director Vanessa Wyche and UT System Chancellor John M. Zerwas also held a ceremonial signing event at Johnson, where leadership and UT System stakeholders discussed potential partnership opportunities and next steps.
KEY QUOTE:
“NASA’s Johnson Space Center has a long history of working with colleges and universities to help us achieve our human spaceflight missions. 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.”
Vanessa Wyche, Johnson Center Director, NASA Johnson Space Center
