Christine Dailey Walck

Background

About Christine Dailey Walck

Associate Professor | Spaceflight Biomechanics | Predictive Modeling | Human Performance | ERBaL Director I’m an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Director of the Embry-Riddle Biomechanics and Aerospace Laboratory (ERBaL)—a research lab bridging human movement, space physiology, and computational modeling. My work integrates biomechanics, imaging, and systems biology to understand how the human body adapts to extreme environments, particularly microgravity. My current research focuses on predictive modeling of biological responses to unloading and disuse. I lead a machine learning project (in partnership with UCF) to estimate muscle-related protein changes using serum proteomics from hindlimb-suspended rodents. I also investigate sex-based differences in intraocular pressure during head-down tilt—addressing critical NASA questions about Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS) and individual risk. Prior to academia, I served as a mechanical engineer for 9 years at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), specializing in unmanned systems and aerospace deception technologies. I now combine that engineering experience with translational research to build tools that support both astronaut health and Earth-based clinical needs. At ERBaL, we train future engineers and scientists through hands-on research, computational modeling, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Explore our work at Let’s connect if you’re working on space medicine, movement science, or human modeling—and want to collaborate at the intersection of biology, technology, and exploration.