By Maria Gonzalez

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS – MARCH 12, 2025 – Dr. Liliana Rivera Sandoval, assistant professor of physics and astronomy at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, has made history as the first faculty member from UTRGV to be named a Cottrell Scholar by the Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA).

The Cottrell Scholar Award recognizes 16 early-career scientists in astronomy, chemistry and physics, providing $120,000 to support research and science education. UTRGV is only the second university in Texas to receive this honor in the field of astronomy. The award acknowledges researchers in the U.S. and Canada for their contributions to science and education through a rigorous peer-review process.

Rivera Sandoval’s research focuses on stellar interactions in extremely dense stellar regions, enhancing our understanding of complex astrophysical systems. She views this award as a significant career milestone, noting its prestige and competitive selection process.

Beyond her research, Rivera Sandoval sees this recognition as validation of her dedication as a researcher, educator and science communicator, while also shining a spotlight on the impact of Hispanic women in her field.

“This recognition is particularly meaningful to me on a personal level because it highlights the visibility and contributions of Hispanic women in astronomy,” she said.

She hopes her achievement will inspire students in their academic pursuits.

“I hope this award encourages students to pursue their academic goals and strive for excellence,” she said. “With hard work and dedication, great accomplishments are within reach.”

Dr. Can (John) Saygin, UTRGV’s senior vice president for research and dean of the Graduate College, emphasized the award’s significance for UTRGV’s growing research community, noting that it highlights the university's leadership in space sciences, which is one of its seven institutional research pathways.

“As the first Cottrell Scholar at UTRGV, Dr. Rivera Sandoval showcases the high-quality research at our university,” Saygin said. “Her work in astronomy and astrophysics is significant and will create more opportunities for our faculty and students.”

ADVANCING RESEARCH AND EDUCATION AT UTRGV

The funding will provide crucial financial support for Rivera Sandoval’s research on stellar interactions and evolution in densely packed stellar environments.

“It will allow me to expand my investigations into the effects of dynamical interactions on exotic binary stars, particularly those harboring stellar remnants within densely populated globular clusters,” Rivera Sandoval said. “I am confident this research will lead to new discoveries.”

The award will also enhance astronomy education at UTRGV, providing students with learning opportunities and mentorship programs through the South Texas Space Science Institute (STSSI). 

“Through this award, students will gain greater exposure to different areas of astronomy and space sciences,” she said. “In collaboration with my colleagues at STSSI, I will organize workshops, mentorship programs, expand collaborations and develop courses to strengthen students’ academic foundation in astronomy.”

Additionally, the funding will support Rivera Sandoval’s professional development, allowing her to refine her teaching strategies and attend events to enhance her teaching methods. The award will also further her community project, Ellas y las Estrellas, which promotes the contributions of Hispanic female astronomers.

RAISING UTRGV’S PROFILE IN ASTRONOMY

Rivera Sandoval stated that receiving this honor is not only a personal milestone but also a significant achievement for UTRGV. She noted that this recognition has boosted her confidence and motivation to continue her cutting-edge research and teaching in astronomy.

“This milestone will catalyze my academic and personal growth, allow me to expand my collaboration network and increase our knowledge of the universe while making a lasting impact on student learning.”

She expressed gratitude to UTRGV Provost Dr. Luis H. Zayas, STSSI, and external collaborators for their support.

“I hope this recognition strengthens astronomy at UTRGV, attracting more talented researchers and faculty and ultimately elevating the university's standing in the field.”