Prof. Giancarlo Genta received degrees in Aeronautical (1971) and Aerospace (1972) Engineering at the Politecnico di Torino. He held positions as Assistant Professor of Machine Design, Associate Professor and then Full Professor in Machine Design. From 1989 to 1995, he served Head of the Department of Mechanics at Politecnico di Torino. He has been Coordinator of Ph.D. course in Mechatronics.
Dr. Genta is Member of the Academy of Sciences of Torino and of the International Academy of Astronautics. He was awarded the International Yangel Medal for Outstanding Contributions to the development of space sciences and technologies and the Engineering Science Award for outstanding achievement in engineering science of the IAA. He heads the IAA Study Group on Human Mars Exploration. He published more than 400 papers and 30 research and popular science books. He is Author of 4 novels including 2 in the Springer series Science and Fiction.