Aomawa Shields, an associate professor of physics and astronomy at the University of California, Irvine, has received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award to teach and conduct research in Italy for the 2026–27 academic year, according to a May 11 announcement.
The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program is awarded annually by the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. Shields will spend three months lecturing in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Bologna, where she will design coursework on planetary environments and habitability as well as lead mindful rest workshops for students and faculty.
During her time in Italy, Shields plans to collaborate with astrophysicist Leonardo Testi on research into how different types of starlight interact with ice mixtures that may exist on planets and moons both within and beyond our Solar System. Together they aim to prepare a proposal for observations of Europa, Jupiter’s fourth-largest moon.
“I am deeply honored to be among those selected to represent the U.S. as a Fulbright Scholar,” Shields said. “To be able to incorporate my research into the teaching of new courses, learn from colleagues with observational expertise, and contribute to the health and wellbeing of the University of Bologna community, all while being in a country I love with my family, means I can bring all of myself to this opportunity. For that I am especially grateful.”
Fulbright Scholars are accomplished professionals who teach or conduct research internationally through partnerships that often lead to future collaborations or institutional ties when they return home. The program was established in 1946 as an investment in global peace through educational exchange and will mark its 80th anniversary in 2026 alongside America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The deadline for applications for the next round (2027-28) is September 15, 2026; more information about eligibility can be found at https://fulbrightprogram.org.
The University of California Irvine participates in NCAA Division I athletics; has earned Carnegie classification for very high research activity; functions within the University of California system; focuses on advancing knowledge through research, education and public service with an emphasis on inclusive excellence; engages in international collaborations; and holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission—all according to its official website.