About Me

I am a physics PhD candidate 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 mergers where the resulting shock fronts accelerate particles and thermalize the ICM.

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. This research involves the examination of how electrons and ions are heated across merger driven shock fronts by comparing observational measurements to theoretical models of ICM equilibration. 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, each of which is independently processed and spatially characterized in detail.

I recieved 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) in phase A study at the time. 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 the organization Science with U, helping students develop and present their science fair projects. I also tutor students across a range of ages and disciplines, including high school to undergraduate level physics and math. My main goal in my teaching and tutoring is to make science more approachable and engaging to anyone with any background. Long term I hope to become a professor where I can combine my research, teaching, and mentorship in a meaningful and impactful way.

Outside of astrophysics, I enjoy birding and conservation work through the Great Salt Lake Audubon, where I am currently one of their webmasters.