I'm an Associate Professor of Astrophysics at Elon University with research interests in the emission line regions of galaxies. I earned my PhD in Astrophysics from Michigan State University and graduated from Eastern Illinois University Magna Cum Laude with degrees in Physics and Applied Physics. The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning shapes the classroom experience for my students, which centers around engaged learning. I regularly interact with the community through public talks ranging from exoplanets to black holes, spanning a wide range of audiences.
My expertise lies in the physics of emission line regions using numerical simulations. Running highly detailed models on supercomputing clusters allows our group to analyze the results of simulations in a fraction of the time that would be required on traditional laptop computers. Specifically, I'm mainly interested in extreme emission line galaxies, intermediate mass black holes, starburst galaxies, HII / PDR / XDRs interfaces, galaxy chemical evolution, Bayesian analysis, and computational astrophysics.
The output from the model grids used in my simulations can be accessed here. Additional output or model grids are available upon request. A complete list of my publications can be found on NASA ADS.
All large galaxies, like the Milky Way, contain a central supermassive black hole with smaller black holes littered throughout the galaxy. Intermediate mass black holes, a class between these two extremes, remain relatively rare, but dwarf galaxies provide the best chance for finding them. Distant galaxies give us a glimpse into the conditions present during the early stages of the universe. Local analogues to these galaxies allow more detailed observations to deeply understand the unaccounted for complexity inherent to the galaxies now routinely found with the James Webb Space Telescope. Galaxies large and small provide unique physical conditions that we can disentaglish using multi-wavelength observations. Understanding the distribution of gas, dust, stars, and high energy phenomena in these galaxies provides insight into complex cycle of enhancing and fueling star formation. Our research group consists of approximately 4-6 undergraduate students from first-years to seniors. Students can start working on projects as early as their first year at Elon, fully engage in every step of the scientific process, and learn skills that will serve them well in their careers or graduate school.
Intermediate mass black holes in dwarf galaxies
Local analogues to early universe galaxies
Galaxy Chemical Evolution
Our Research Group
Elon University is a place where teachers thrive. I take pride in constantly reflecting on my approcah in the classroom to set up students to learn more than they ever could from a textbook alone. I value the supportive, yet rigorous, nature of our astronomy curriculum where students not only engage with latest discoveries in the field, but also develop oral, written, and computation skills that the environmment at Elon is ideal for cultivating.
Learn more about my teaching
I enjoy creating a connection between the community and the latest discoveries in astronomy. From the most recent images taken by the James Webb Space Telescope to the first image of a black hole taken by the Event Horizon Telescope, conveying the scientific importance of these results is one of the most exciting parts of my profession. From K-12 students to lifelong amateur astronomers, I feel that a properly communicated presentation should be accessible to any audience.
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