Peter Garnavich, professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Notre Dame, has been elected as a Fellow of the American Astronomical Society (AAS).
He was elected for “innovative work on supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, and cataclysmic variables that has proven essential to furthering our understanding of various astrophysical phenomena,” the American Astronomical Society described in a press release.
“It is particularly gratifying that the award also notes my 'tireless devotion' to students, as I am proud of the graduates and undergraduates that I have mentored in research,” said Garnavich.
Garnavich is also a Fellow in the American Physical Society as well as the American Association for the Advancement of Science for his contributions to innovation.
He earned his master’s degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a doctorate from the University of Washington.
Garnavich has won the Gruber Prize in Cosmology, the Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, and was part of the team that earned a Nobel Prize in Physics.
“But being named an AAS Fellow recognizes my contributions to astronomy over my entire career — sort of a life-time achievement award,” he said. “I discovered a nova when I was in high school, so I've been doing astro research for a very long time!
“It is great to have this recognition from my peers for my accumulated work.”
Established in 1899, the American Astronomical Society is a major international organization of professional astronomers, astronomy educators, and amateur astronomers. The AAS Fellows program began four years ago, and fewer than .0.5% of AAS members are named fellows each year.
“I think having AAS Fellows at ND reflects well on the research being done here and on the investment ND has made in astronomy. It also raises the profile of ND in the eyes of other research universities,” Garnavich said.
Originally published by at science.nd.edu on February 02, 2024.