Overview
I am a third-year graduate student interested in the characterization of exoplanet surfaces and atmospheres, with a particular interest in habitability, volcanic activity, and comparative studies. I work with Dr. Nikole Lewis on observational research analyzing transit spectroscopy taken with Hubble or with JWST to characterize atmospheres, and on theoretical research determining new measurements we can make to gain insight into the surfaces and interiors of these worlds.
I grew up in Pennsylvania and graduated from Penn State in 2022, obtaining a BS in Astronomy and Astrophysics, a BS in Physics, and a minor in Mathematics. While there, I worked with Dr. Eric Hudson to conduct research into the electronic properties of strained graphene and BSCCO as observed through scanning tunneling microscopy. I also worked remotely with Dr. Danilo Marchesini at Tufts University; I based my thesis project on our research into the evolution of galaxies and the use of medium width K-band filters to improve spectral resolution. Before that, I spent a summer working with Dr. Robert Harmon at Ohio Wesleyan University on the applications of light-curve inversion techniques for inferring starspot maps of the rotating variable star LO Pegasi. Apart from research, I was also engaged in peer mentoring and tutoring programs at Penn State, working as a learning assistant for sophomore-level astrophysics classes and as a tutor for first-year courses in mathematics and physics.
Outside of my research and academic studies, I enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and generally exploring the beautiful wilderness around us. I also like to draw and play piano, and I love video games, especially strategy, roleplaying, and action-adventure games. On clear nights, I try my hand at astrophotography; my favorite targets for imaging are galaxies and I especially love the peculiar Tadpole Galaxy.