Students at St. Edward's University are getting top-notch preparation to enter natural science careers. On Friday, Sept. 24, NASA astronaut Gregory H. Johnson will deliver the keynote address, "NASA Update: Astronaut Training and Missions to Space," at the Natural Sciences Career Symposium.

Selected by NASA in 1998, Johnson has completed Astronaut Candidate Training and has worked on projects redesigning cockpit displays for future Space Shuttle missions. Johnson, who played a key role in several investigations into the cause of last year's Columbia accident, currently is awaiting assignment on his first shuttle mission. Prior to joining NASA, Johnson, who also is a United States Air Force (USAF) lieutenant colonel, flew 34 combat missions in support of Operation Desert Storm and 27 combat missions over Iraq in the subsequent Operation Southern Watch.

The Natural Sciences Career Symposium offers a day of interactive learning for students to explore the academic and professional process of finding a career in the natural sciences. Students can hear presentations from professionals in chemistry, biology, mathematics and computer sciences and learn about career opportunities in research, graduate schools and health professions.

• Who: St. Edward's University School of Natural Sciences
• What: 7th Annual Natural Sciences Career Symposium
• When: Friday, Sept. 24
  • 11:30 a.m. - Students Sign in
  • Noon - Opening remarks and keynote presentation
  • 12:45 – 4:20 p.m. Career exploration break out sessions
  • 4:30 p.m. – Reception
• Where: Robert & Pearle Ragsdale Center, Mabee Ballrooms