My research interests include stellar spectroscopy, composition, and evolution, specifically as it relates to stellar populations in Galactic globular clusters.
I determine abundances through stellar spectroscopy by creating synthetic spectra using the Synthetic Spectrum Generator, MOOG, or Turbospectrum. I've also written additional scripts in Python, C, and Fortran to aid in data reduction and analysis.
Most of my work involves observational astronomy; I have experience with multiple observing programs using the Lick Observatory Shane 3m, the APO 3.5m, and the WIYN 3.5m telescopes. Currently, I am working on the Stellar Abundances and atmospheric Parameters Pipeline (SAPP), which is a pipeline that will be used by upcoming stellar surveys such as 4MOST, WEAVE, and PLATO to determine stellar parameters. I am also helping to create a new version of Turbospectrum capable of NLTE calculations.
In addition to research, I also enjoy teaching and mentoring students. While I was at IU my responsibilities included being a teacher's assistant as well as teaching my own introductory astronomy course. I was the instructor of record for an introductory astronomy course about the Solar System (A100: The Solar System). I am interested in the best ways to develop material and engage students in the classroom through hands-on learning.
Astrophysics PhD, 2019
Indiana University
Astronomy MA, 2016
Indiana University
B.S in Physics with concentration in Astronomy, 2014
Appalachian State University
Thurs, Jan 11, 2018, American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts
Wed., Jun 7, 2017, American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts
Graduate Instructor of Record for A100: The Solar System
Indiana University Jan - May 2017
I taught an introductory astronomy class with an enrollment of roughly 30 students as instructor of record. Course title was A100: The Solar System. I focused on teaching through hands-on learning activities, which I helped to develop with another graduate student.
Associate Instructor
Indiana University Various Semesters
Graded homework, kept office hours, guest lectured, and led student rooftop observing sessions for introductory astronomy courses for undergraduate majors.
Teacher's Assistant
Appalachian State University 2012 - 2014
Assisted with Introduction to Astronomy lab courses and an Introduction to Physics course for non-majors.
Tutor
High Point University 2010 - 2011
I tutored introductory physics and math courses. I was a Level 2 Certified Tutor by the College Reading and Learning Association.
