Bo Guo and Martha Whitaker Elected College of Science Galileo Circle Awardees
CONTENT UPDATED 6 February 2026 to clarify names of Galileo Circle awards made to each recipient.
Each year, the College of Science honors five to seven Galileo Circle award recipients whose work exemplifies excellence in teaching, research, mentoring, outreach, and service. These awards represent one of the highest distinctions the college can bestow, recognizing faculty and staff whose impact extends well beyond the classroom and laboratory.
We are thrilled to announce that our very own Bo Guo and Martha Whitaker have been selected as 2026 Galileo Circle Awardees. Established through the generosity of Galileo Circle members, this prestigious award celebrates rising stars in the scientific community whose innovative work advances science while also strengthening diversity within the field.
For Martha Whitaker, the award reflects a deep commitment to interdisciplinary education and student engagement. “I’m deeply honored to receive the Galileo Circle Copernicus Award,” Whitaker said.
“Through developing Vertically Integrated Projects, course-based undergraduate research experiences, and our unique Careers in HAS course, I’ve worked to break down disciplinary boundaries and give students hands-on opportunities to engage with hydrology and atmospheric sciences.”
She noted that the most meaningful outcome of this work is watching students discover their potential as researchers and emerging professionals, adding that she is grateful to the HAS department, the College of Science, her collaborators, and especially the students whose energy and curiosity drive these programs forward.
Bo Guo, who received the Galileo Circle Curie Award, emphasized the collaborative environment that has shaped his research and mentorship.
“I am honored to receive the Galileo Circle Curie Award,” Guo shared. “This recognition reflects not only my own work, but also the creativity and dedication of my research group and collaborators.”
He added that the supportive culture at the University of Arizona—where colleagues look out for one another—has been essential to the development of his work and mentoring over the past eight years.
Together, Guo and Whitaker exemplify the dedication to teaching, research, and student success that defines the College of Science. The time and care they invest in educating students and advancing discovery serve as a powerful example of their commitment to the department and to the next generation of scientists.
Both awardees will receive a monetary award and lifetime membership in the Galileo Circle and will be honored at a ceremony on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Hacienda Del Sol Resort.