Linda Strubbe (third from left) and collaborators at the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (supplied image)
Linda Strubbe receives Astronomy Education Prize from International Astronomical Union
Published: July 30, 2024
Linda Strubbe, a former post-doctoral fellow in the Canadian Institute of Theoretical Physics (CITA) at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Arts & Science, has from the International Astronomical Union (IAU).
The award honours scientists, science communicators and educators who have made outstanding contributions to astronomy education, outreach or development.
Strubbe and co-recipient Bonaventure Okere, who leads the IAUs West African Regional Office of Astronomy for Development, were recognized for their contributions as co-founders of the . Since its founding in 2013, PASEA has held summer school programs in Nigeria, Ghana and Zambia, with the next program slated for Tunisia.
I feel really honoured, grateful, and excited to receive this award from the IAU for PASEA," said Strubbe. "PASEA is truly a team effort, so we celebrate this award with our fellow co-directors, our instructor team and our inspiring students and alumni from around the African continent.
"For me personally, I love helping students follow their curiosity about the universe and collaborate with others to solve astronomy questions they're excited about. I also love helping instructors learn new ways of teaching astronomy.
"I hope this recognition from the IAU may strengthen all efforts working towards astronomy for development in Africa.
Strubbes post-doctoral research at CITA saw her focus on the tidal disruption of stars by massive black holes in the centre of galaxies, before she transitioned to a career in science education and consulting.
