Hi! I am a rising 5th-year Astronomy PhD candidate at Indiana University - Bloomington (IU) with a graduate minor in Scientific Computing. I am broadly interested in exoplanets and planetary science. My dissertation, under the advisorship of Dr. Songhu Wang, involves the use of numerical and observational efforts to study the origins of short-period gas giants. I am also greatly interested in planetary science, and participated in NASA's Planetary Science Summer School (PSSS). Additionally, I am heavily involved in scientific outreach and serve in various leadership roles at IU, including Undergraduate Research Coordinator and Department Tea Talk Coordinator.
I earned a B.S. in Astronomy-Physics, a B.S. in Physics and a certificate in Computer Sciences from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in May of 2020. During my undergraduate career, I also participated in astronomy and physics outreach as the Volunteer Coordinator and Vice President of the Astronomy Club.
When not doing science, I am likely on my feet. First and foremost, I am an avid long distance runner. These days, I mainly run marathons, and plan to participate in the 2025 Boston Marathon. I also love hiking, and have particularly enjoyed my visits to several National Parks. Originating from Minnesota, I try to make the most of my winters by cross-country skiing. I also dabble in ultimate frisbee and indoor climbing (at a very novice level!).
Observed stellar obliquities of short-period giants in multi-planet systems
Measuring system spin-orbit angles via the Rossiter-McLaughlin effect to probe misalignment mechanisms and evolutionary histories.
Dynamical origins of short-period giants
Observationally-motivated N-body simulations of short-period giant systems, with a focus on the dynamical footprints left by different origin stories.
Planetary science and mission concept studies
Developing a New Frontiers mission concept for an orbiting spacecraft at Saturn's moon, Titan, as part of NASA's PSSS program.
AGN activity across cosmic time
Constraining the evolution of AGN density, luminosity, and spectral type as a function of redshift.
Atomic, molecular, and optical physics
Development of electronics, software, and optical systems for use in quantum computation with neutral atoms.