James De Buizer

James De Buizer is a professional astronomer and aeronaut. He currently works for the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA), which is a NASA project utilizing a heavily modified Boeing 747SP aircraft fitted with a 2.7-meter telescope that flies at high altitude and conducts astronomical research. He holds the position of Manager for Science Operations for SOFIA, and is also a Senior Scientist for the Universities Space Research Association. James does research in several areas of observational astronomy and astrophysics, though the formation of high mass stars is his field of expertise. He also has extensive experience with infrared astronomical instrumentation. During his tenure at SOFIA he has flown on-board over 50 missions as flight Science Director.