The American Astronomical Society (AAS), the leading international organization for professional astronomers since 1899, recognizes Professor Peter Martin with the 2026 George Van Biesbroeck Prize for his “long-term extraordinary or unselfish service to astronomy.” Awarded biennially, the prize honors individuals whose lifelong dedication to scientific discovery and service to others goes beyond the bounds of their formal professional duties.
As a Professor at the University of Toronto and the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA), Professor Martin is celebrated for his visionary leadership in founding both CITA and the Dunlap Institute. These institutions have become world-leading centres for research and training, significantly bolstering the Canadian astronomical community through the CITA National Fellows program and a robust commitment to public outreach.
Professor Martin’s impact extends well beyond his home institutions. Subsequent to his tenure as President of the Canadian Astronomical Society (CASCA) from 2006 to 2008, he was instrumental in establishing two of the society’s prestigious honours: the Martin Award for mid-career achievement and the Dunlap Award for Innovation in Astronomical Research Tools. His extensive service history includes leadership roles with the Coalition for Canadian Astronomy and the Association of Canadian Universities for Research in Astronomy (ACURA), alongside global outreach initiatives like Mystical Landscapes, CoolCosmos, and the West African International Summer School for Young Astronomers.
With over 400 peer-reviewed publications, Professor Martin has not only shaped the field through research but has also mentored the next generation of leaders in astrophysics. This latest honour joins a long list of high distinctions, including Officer of the Order of Canada (2016), the Gruber Cosmology Prize (2018) with the Planck Collaboration, and the CASCA Executive Award for Outstanding Service (2014).
Read more in the AAS Announcement and on A&S News.