James Phillips is a doctoral student and graduate teaching fellow at the University of Oregon's School of Journalism and Communication. His research focuses on the strategic practices of aerospace communication and engagement (otherwise known as SPACE), primarily observing how space agencies communicate science with the public and how members of the public in turn understand and engage with space science. As a scholar of space science communication, Phillips seeks to bridge the gap between academia and industry by implementing a mixed methods and interdisciplinary approach to his research, creating a more holistic understanding of existing messaging strategies used when communicating space science. He has presented findings at academic and professional conferences on progressive and inclusive approaches to narrative techniques used by agencies like the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. As the future of space science and space policy takes shape, his goal is to ensure that aerospace endeavors are truly done for all humankind.

Outside of academia, Phillips is part of the United Nations' Space Generation Advisory Council, where he serves as a member of the North America, Central America, and the Caribbean (NCAC) Task Force assisting with publishing space policy briefs and facilitating conversations with field experts and industry professionals about ongoing aerospace initiatives.