Introduction
My previous research has focused on studying different stellar populations to identify the presence of circumstellar disks, to distinguish between M dwarf and giant stars, and to determine orbital solutions of young spectroscopic binary systems.
My interests are infrared observation and instrumentation as it applies to star formation. I am currently working with Dr. Ian McLean in the UCLA Infrared Laboratory to complete MOSFIRE (the Multi-Object Spectrometer for Infra-Red Exploration) for delivery to Keck I early in 2011. As part of this project I am analyzing possible observing techniques and determining science goals for first light observations. I am also completing work with Dr. Lisa Prato, of Lowell Observatory, to determine the orbital solution of the spectroscopic binary NTTS 155808-2219.
Outreach
This is the second year that the department has had a graduate Outreach Coordinator position. Last year we founded our student group Astronomy Live! and had our first outreach activities. This year we have expanded our offerings and have been working hard to make Exploring Your Universe even bigger. If you are an interested school (or donor) please contact me or visit the outreach webpage.
About Me
I am a third year graduate student at UC Los Angeles. Originally from Flagstaff, Arizona, my wife and I lived in Santa Monica for ~1.5 years before moving to Westwood, Los Angeles. I passed my comprehensive Masters exam on April 9, 2010! I now have many more years of thesis research to conduct. For more about me and my interests outside of work please visit the link to the right.
