Pranvera Hyseni, an Albanian astronomer from Kosovo, has achieved a remarkable milestone at the University of California, Santa Cruz, by winning the annual award for the best doctoral proposal in the Department of Planetary Sciences.
This prestigious honor, granted only once per year for the most promising research project, comes with a $3,000 grant and is considered one of the highest academic recognitions in planetary astronomy.
Hyseni’s research focuses on asteroids and small bodies in the Solar System, particularly those containing water and organic compounds. She investigates the processes of transformation of nitrogen-containing materials and salts by combining laboratory experiments, telescope observations, and theoretical modeling. Her studies provide crucial insights into the distribution of water and the potential for life in the early stages of our solar system.
“This award is not only a personal achievement but also a testament that passion and curiosity for science know no geographic boundaries,” said Hyseni, expressing gratitude to the evaluation committee and her colleagues for their ongoing support.
Her success marks a proud moment for Kosovan science and serves as a powerful inspiration for young people pursuing careers in STEM fields.
