Michael Radica receives International Astronomical Union PhD Prize

We are happy to announce that Michael Radica, who completed his PhD in astrophysics at the Université de Montréal in 2024, has been awarded the prestigious PhD Prize of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) granted by Division F, which focuses on planetary systems and astrobiology. The IAU PhD Prizes recognize outstanding scientific contributions by early-career astronomers from around the world.

In his doctoral thesis, Insights into the Diversity of Exoplanet Atmospheres in the Era of JWST, Michael explored the formation, composition, and evolution of exoplanet atmospheres using data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and the Hubble Space Telescope. By applying transit spectroscopy techniques, he investigated the atmospheres of the hot Saturn WASP-96 b and the ultra-hot Neptune LTT 9779 b, raising intriguing questions about these exotic worlds. Michael has also had notable success in securing observing time on JWST through the competitive calls for proposals, with approved programs in Cycles 2, 3, and most recently, Cycle 4.

Alongside his observational work, Michael developed innovative software tools to analyze data from the Canadian NIRISS instrument on JWST, in its SOSS mode, and he has contributed to nearly forty peer-reviewed publications.

Currently an NSERC postdoctoral fellow at the University of Chicago, Michael continues his research on exoplanet atmospheres, helping to advance our understanding of the diverse worlds beyond our Solar System. His impressive trajectory reflects both remarkable versatility and a strong commitment to the progress of astrophysical knowledge.

Congratulations to Michael on this well-deserved recognition!

About the Prize

The IAU PhD Prizes are awarded annually to recognize the most outstanding doctoral theses in astronomy from around the globe. Each of the IAU’s nine scientific divisions selects one recipient whose work is considered the most remarkable of the past year. The other 2024 prize winners are listed here.