Cynthia Cattell

Cynthia Cattell is a space plasma physicist known for her research on solar flares and radiation belts.

Education and career
Cattell has a B.A. from Hampshire College (1974) and earned her Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley in 1980.

As of 2021, Cattell is a professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Minnesota.

Research
Cattell's research on electron holes in space helps explain the release of energy from magnetic explosions in space. Cattell has also examined the energization of electrons in Earth's radiation belt and used satellite data to examine the behavior of ions flowing around Earth. Cattell uses her scientific knowledge to present the public with viewing opportunities to see the Northern Lights.

Awards and honors

 * Fellow, American Geophysical Union (2008)
 * Fellow, American Physical Society (2010)
 * George W. Taylor for Distinguished Service (2011) from the University of Minnesota
 * CSE Distinguished Professor (2020)
 * Mullen-Spector-Traux Women's Leadership Award (2014)
 * Cottrell Scholar (1997)

Personal life
In 2012, Cattell was diagnosed with cancer and was treated with an experimental drug developed by colleagues at University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Center. After receiving an increased dosage of an experimental drug there was a reduction in Cattell's tumor and her lymphoma was considered in remission.