Astronaut candidate's profile
The candidates participating in the astronaut selection process all have unique journeys and outstanding qualities and skills. You can read their remarkable profiles here.
Karakolis, Thomas
Where were you born?
Scarborough, Ontario, Canada
Where do you currently live?
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Education
- Bachelor's, mechanical engineering – McMaster University
- Master's, mechanical engineering – McMaster University
- Ph.D., kinesiology – University of Waterloo
Photo of the astronaut candidate during the aptitude tests. (Credit: Canadian Space Agency)
What is your current job?
Defence Scientist at Defence Research and Development Canada (Department of National Defence) - My current research focusses on assessing the biomechanical demands placed on members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), with the goal of improving performance and preventing injuries across all branches of the CAF.
Why do you want to become an astronaut?
I want to become an astronaut to explore the unknown, help others, and advance our society's understanding of ourselves and the world around us. I've always been a curious person, and have always wanted to push the boundaries of what I believe is possible. I would also love to serve as an inspiration to others, and to show that anything is possible when you have a dream.