Marina Parker

In complex system of systems development, requirements are too often viewed merely as rigid constraints or boxes to be checked. However, treating them as such can lead to systems that meet specifications on paper but fail to meet user needs in the field. A requirement is more than just a metric; it is a promise of operational capability. In this tech talk, Dr. Parker will discuss why it is crucial for development teams to deeply understand the fundamental purpose behind system requirements, question every requirement, and understand the consequences of a poorly written requirement. Dr. Parker will illustrate how the way we interpret a requirement directly dictates the operational realities of the final system and why maintaining a clear line of sight between systems engineering and the end-user is the key to Artemis Missions’ success.

Biography:

Dr. Marina Parker is a Lead Systems Engineering Architect supporting NASA's Extravehicular Activity (EVA) and Human Surface Mobility Program (EHP) through Analytical Mechanics Associates' (AMA) RSES contract. She holds a B.S. and M.S. from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, and a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering from the University of South Alabama, where her research focused on hyperspectral imaging in microscopy applications.
Dr. Parker currently supports the Mission Analysis and Performance team, assessing integration capabilities for Artemis EVAs. She leads collaborative efforts with Moon 2 Mars, the Lunar Terrain Vehicle and Spacesuits Projects, Flight Operations Directorate, and Safety and Mission Assurance to ensure integrated systems meet critical mission requirements. 
Previously, Dr. Parker served as Exploration Medical Capability Concept of Operations Lead and Project Systems Engineering Technical Lead for Earth Independent Medical Operations, focusing on future Mars missions. She led the development of concepts of operations and requirements for autonomous deep-space medical systems, enabling a critical shift from Earth-dependent care to space-based capabilities that enhance astronaut health and mission success despite communication delays, resource constraints, and impossible evacuations. 
Beyond her professional work, Dr. Parker is passionate about human space exploration, mentorship, and community engagement. She holds Advanced Open Water diving certification, is a certified Wilderness First Responder with training in advanced wilderness survival, search and rescue and is currently pursuing her Class A skydiving license. Dr. Parker is a proud mom to her two Great Danes, Peter Parker and Storm.