Ali Bramson

Ali Bramson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at Purdue University. Her research focuses on quantitative geomorphology of planetary surfaces, particularly ice and volatile processes on Mars, the Moon, and other solar system bodies. She utilizes spacecraft remote sensing, theoretical modeling, and field studies to understand planetary surface evolution. Bramson's work impacts in situ resource utilization for Mars exploration and future robotic missions.

Education:

• Ph.D., Planetary Sciences with Geosciences minor (University of Arizona, 2018)
• M.S., Planetary Sciences with Geosciences minor (University of Arizona, 2015)
• B.S., Physics and Astronomy-Physics with Computer Science minor (University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2011)

Research Interests:

Bramson studies ice dynamics, volatile transport, and surface processes on Mars, the Moon, and icy moons. Her work combines remote sensing (e.g., radar, imaging) with laboratory experiments and fieldwork at terrestrial analog sites. Key topics include Martian mid-latitude ice stability, lunar hydration mechanisms, and cryovolcanism on outer solar system satellites. She explores questions like: How do polar ice caps evolve? What drives ice mass balance on Mars? How can planetary ice deposits support future exploration?

Awards:

• Forward Under 40 Awardee (Wisconsin Alumni Association, 2019)
• Gerard P. Kuiper Memorial Award (2018)
• Lunar and Planetary Institute Career Development Award (2017)

Advising & Grants:

Bramson mentors graduate and undergraduate researchers in planetary science. Her group actively secures funding for Mars and lunar exploration studies, including NASA grants and collaborations with space agencies. Recent projects include ice mapping for Mars missions and lunar hydration studies using Mini-RF radar data.

Labs/Teams:

She collaborates with the Geodata Science Initiative and Purdue's Planetary Science group. Her research group (Bramson Research Group) emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to planetary surface science and advocates for inclusive scientific environments.