Prince George, B.C. – A big honour for a UNBC professor – in fact some may argue it’s truly out of this world.

Dr. Margot Mandy – photo courtesy UNBC

Professor Dr. Margot Mandy has been named a member of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in recognition of her internationally recognized theoretical research in astrochemistry.

Membership will allow her to vote on IAU resolutions, which helps inform what types of research need to be done next to answer important astronomical questions.

Founded in 1919, the IAU has more than 12,000 members from 96 countries. She was nominated for IAU membership by the Canadian National Committee of the International Astronomy Union through the National Research Council of Canada.

A faculty member at UNBC since 1994, her research focuses on the energy transfer during molecular collisions in outer space.

Some of the duties in her new role will include assigning designations to stars, planets, asteroids and other celestial bodies, promoting international cooperation in scientific research and organizing conferences where researchers can share their findings.