Purdue planetary scientist Ali Bramson wins 2026 Urey Prize
05-12-2026
Ali Bramson, assistant professor in Purdue University's Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences, has been named a winner of the 2026 Harold C. Urey Prize (“Urey Prize”) from the American Astronomical Society's Division for Planetary Sciences.
The prize, named for Harold C. Urey, who was the winner of the 1934 Nobel Prize, recognizes outstanding achievements in planetary science by an early-career scientist. According to the Division for Planetary Sciences, the award honors scientists who are "poised to change the practice of planetary science" and whose "publications are widely recognized as being influential."
Bramson is one of two scientists selected for this year’s Urey Prize. She was recognized for groundbreaking contributions to planetary science, including research that has redefined the understanding of subsurface ice on Mars. Her work has helped reveal massive, widespread buried ice deposits at Martian mid-latitudes, changing how scientists think about Mars' climate history and helping shape priorities for future Mars exploration.
Bramson's research combines radar science, geomorphology and modeling to study ice, volatiles and surface processes on planetary bodies. Her work spans ice evolution on Mars, buried lava flows on the Moon, and radar technology development for future spacecraft missions. The Division for Planetary Sciences also cited Bramson's leadership in guiding mission teams and shaping international efforts to explore the subsurface of planetary objects across the solar system.
The 2026 DPS prizes will be presented during the 58th annual Division for Planetary Sciences Meeting, set for Oct. 25-30 in Spokane, Washington.
About the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at Purdue University
The Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (EAPS) combines four of Purdue’s most interdisciplinary programs: geology and geophysics, environmental sciences, atmospheric sciences, and planetary sciences. EAPS conducts world-class research; educates undergraduate and graduate students; and provides our college, university, state and country with the information necessary to understand the world and universe around us. Our research is globally recognized; our students are highly valued by graduate schools and employers; and our alumni continue to make significant contributions in academia, industry, and federal and state government.
Written by: David Siple, communications specialist, Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at Purdue University