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.
Lehnhardt, Kris
Where were you born?
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Where do you currently live?
Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Education
- Bachelor's, bio-medical science – University of Guelph
- Doctorate, medicine – Western University
- Residency, emergency medicine – Western University
Photo of the astronaut candidate during the aptitude tests. (Credit: Canadian Space Agency)
What is your current job?
Attending Physician and Assistant Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University - Every day is different at my job, which I really enjoy. Some days I am working in the Emergency Department, leading a team of doctors, nurses, physician assistants, and technicians who provide medical care to people who are sick or injured. Other days, I perform medical screening exams for pilots to make sure that they are safe to fly, teach university students about how challenging it is to keep astronauts alive and healthy in space, or develop medical protocols and procedures for our campus ambulance service (which is run by student volunteer emergency medical technicians).
Why do you want to become an astronaut?
I have wanted to explore space ever since I saw my first Space Shuttle launch on TV in Grade 2. It was the most amazing thing that I had ever seen and I wanted to be part of it, so it became my lifelong goal to become an astronaut. I love the idea of representing my country, inspiring others, exploring new places, working with smart people who are passionate about what they do, and challenging myself both physically and mentally. And of course, what's not to love about rockets and spaceships?
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