Bethany Ehlmann

Bethany Ehlmann is a planetary scientist joining the University of Colorado Boulder as Director of the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) and Professor of Geological Sciences. She will also hold an affiliate Professor role in Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences and serve as a Provost Chair in Research and Innovation.

Education:

• Bachelor’s in Earth & Planetary Sciences and Environmental Studies (minor in math), Washington University
• Master’s in Environmental Change & Management and Geography, University of Oxford
• Master’s and PhD in Geological Sciences, Brown University

Her research focuses on planetary water systems, habitable world evolution, and remote sensing technologies for space missions. She contributes to projects like the Europa Clipper, Mars rovers Curiosity and Perseverance, Lunar Trailblazer, and ExoMars.

Leadership & Recognition:

• President, The Planetary Society
• Science team member, National Academies Decadal Surveys
• Fellow, American Geophysical Union and Mineralogical Society of America

As LASP director, she will advance CU Boulder’s legacy in space sciences through research, education, and mission leadership.