Emmanuel Masongsong '04

---

Emmanuel Masongsong ’04 is the subject of a UCLA Newsroom spotlight comprising a video and a self-penned story on his nearly 27-year Bruin journey.

A pillar of the physical sciences division staff in the Department of Earth, Planetary and Space Sciences (EPSS) since 2011, he earned his degree in microbiology, immunology, and molecular genetics and spent 12 years working in the School of Nursing.

In “From the clinic to the concert hall to the cosmos,” Masongsong reflects on his personal and professional odyssey, tracing how his childhood experiences on campus, passion for science and music, and diverse career path led him to his current role supporting NASA satellite missions in EPSS. The piece highlights his Filipino family roots, early work in medical research and clinical trials, and deep involvement in music performance (he plays over thirty instruments) and production, including appearances at Carnegie Hall and Royce Hall. He describes how UCLA enabled him to merge creativity, engineering, science and outreach into a career centered on space exploration and student mentorship.

The accompanying video contains photos and footage that showcase Masongsong's UCLA adventures, the science he loves and the immeasurable impact he’s had on students and the campus.