Research
As an undergraduate, I completed a senior thesis with Horace Smith at Michigan
State University (MSU), observing with the MSU 24-inch telescope and
performing aperture photometry for pulsating variable stars from multi-band
optical data. I studied multiple mode RR Lyrae stars, determining new light
curves for a sample currently being observed for parallax with the Hubble
Space Telescope, and established a relationship between metal abundance and
light curve shape based on SDSS ugriz photometry.
I also previously participated in an REU program in a condensed matter lab,
collaborating with Norman Birge (MSU) in the production of monatomic carbon
layers (or graphene). I focused on defining a reliable procedure for
producing single to few-layer carbon sheets on silicon substrates.
I'm interested studying active galaxies and cosmology, and in understanding
the process of galaxy formation and evolution.
I began my graduate work at New Mexico State University at the start of the
fall semester of 2009. Recently, I began working on a project started by Dr.
Nicole Vogt focusing on long distance science education. This project will
allow undergraduates to complete a science course, complete with laboratory
exercises, outside of the traditional classroom. Due to the dispersed, rural
nature of the southern New Mexico population, there is a strong need to provide
resources to allow non-traditional students to complete B.S. work, which
includes a state-mandated requirement of at least two science laboratory
courses. Materials made available through this project will provide a mechanism
for students to review the basics of math and science, and to explore current
topics in astronomy. This is especially beneficial to those students with
family or work commitments that would otherwise be unable to complete
in-class coursework.
I am also a TA for Dr. Anatoly Klypin's Ast. 110G lab. The lab web page can be
found here.
