About Me

I am a physics PhD student at the University of Utah working in X-ray astronomy and galaxy cluster physics, under the advisement of Dr. Daniel Wik. My research focuses on two primary areas: a comprehensive cross-calibration study between NuSTAR and Chandra to better understand the discrepency between cluster temperature measurements, and the investigation of physical processes that occur in merging galaxy clusters. I am particularly interested in the behavior of the intra cluster medium (ICM) during energetic merger events and the resulting shock fronts, particle acceleration, plasma heating, and interaction between thermal and nonthermal components of galaxy clusters.

My current work includes a study of the merging galaxy cluster Abell 754 using X-ray observations from NuSTAR and Chandra, which builds on a similar study I published on Abell 665. One aspect of this research involves examining how electrons are heated across merger driven shock fronts and comparing observational measurements to theoretical models of equilibration in the ICM. I am also involved in collaborative work investigating radio relic systems and searching for Inverse Compton emission to better constrain magnetic field strengths in galaxy clusters, as well as a comprehensive cross-calibration effort addressing temperature differences in NuSTAR and Chandra, which currently includes 182 observations of 36 galaxy clusters for a grand total of 9.1 Ms of data.

I received my bachelor’s degree in physics with an emphasis in astronomy from the University of Utah in 2021 and began graduate studies in 2023 after working as a post-bach, recieving my master’s degree in 2025. Since joining the X-ray astronomy group as an undergraduate, I have contributed to multiple research projects involving observational analysis, simulation work, and instrument studies. My first published project focused on simulated gas clumping in the outskirts of galaxy clusters and evaluating the sensitivity of a proposed NASA MIDEX probe (STAR-X). My second publication focused on equilbration models in the merging galaxy cluster Abell 665.

In addition to research, I enjoy teaching, tutoring, and outreach efforts. I mentor middle school students through an organization called Science with U, helping them to develop, carry out, and present their science fair projects. I tutor students across a range of ages and disciplines and I care deeply about making science approachable and engaging. Long term I hope to pursue a career as a professor where I can combine research, teaching, and mentorship.

Outside of astrophysics, I enjoy birding and conservation work through the Great Salt Lake Audubon, where I currently help manage their website, events, and attend board meetings as one of their Webmasters.