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The Geological Society of America has awarded the SETI Institute's Dr. Janice Bishop the prestigious 2024 Arthur L. Day Medal. Established in 1948, this award recognizes exceptional contributions to solving geologic problems through applying physics and chemistry. In line with its founding intent, the medal honors researchers who are actively advancing the field rather than solely celebrating a distinguished career.
“Throughout my career, I have benefited from numerous engaging discussions with colleagues who have inspired and challenged me. I accept this prestigious award on behalf of my mentors, collaborators, postdocs, and students," said Bishop.
Dr. Bishop’s nomination came from Dr. Scott Murchie, a leading planetary scientist and investigator on NASA missions, including CRISM on the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and MISE on the Europa Clipper. In his nomination, Murchie highlighted Bishop’s groundbreaking research:
Janice Bishop has been a planetary science visionary who, based on her expertise in clay, iron sulfate, and iron oxyhydroxide minerals, foresaw a range of potential science discoveries at Mars and asteroids, particularly Ceres. In preparation for interpreting spaceflight measurements of these worlds, she completed an extensive body of laboratory research needed to interpret such results. Over her career, Janice anticipated a range of potential secondary mineral assemblages on Mars, completed foundational work on terrestrial and laboratory analogs needed to understand the formation environments of these minerals, and proceeded with involvement in flight missions to Mars to connect the geology of that planet to Earth and laboratory analogs. Her merging of terrestrial, laboratory, and flight data has led to key insights about Mars, most notably the environment and chemistry involved in the relatively brief period of Martian history during which extensive water-rock interactions occurred in a subaerial environment.
In September, Dr. Bishop joined Murchie for an interview with GSA Connects. They discussed her trailblazing work in planetary science and spectroscopy, her contributions to Mars exploration, and the significance of this honor. Murchie offered a deeper look into her impact, emphasizing why she stood out as a nominee for this distinguished award. Watch their discussion here.
Congratulations Janice!
