Jan Stepanek

Jan Stepanek, M.D., M.P.H., is a prominent physician at the Mayo Clinic, specializing in aerospace medicine and internal medicine. He holds the position of Program Director for the Mayo Clinic Arizona Aerospace Medicine Program and serves as the Co-Director of the Aerospace Medicine and Vestibular Research Laboratory. His work primarily focuses on the effects of spatial disorientation during flight, cognitive impairment due to hypoxia, and the prevention of acceleration-induced blackout. He is also involved in enhancing balance and immersive environments in flight simulation and entertainment.12

Dr. Stepanek's educational background includes a medical degree from the University of Basel and a Master of Public Health from the University of Texas Medical Branch. He completed his residency in aerospace medicine at UTMB/NASA and has held various leadership roles throughout his career, including chairing the Division of Preventive Occupational and Aerospace Medicine at Mayo Clinic.123

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Stepanek is actively engaged in research, contributing to advancements in aerospace physiology and executive health. He has received multiple awards for his contributions to the field, including the Victor A. Prather Award for his groundbreaking work in space physiology.12