Research
Our researchers explore nearly every aspect of modern astronomy—from the earliest moments of the cosmos and galaxy evolution to black holes, supernovae and planetary systems.
Research Interests
Extragalactic
Research areas include reionization era and first galaxies, black holes and active galactic nuclei, star formation, secular evolution, galaxy mergers, galaxy clusters, dark matter, stellar populations and instrumentation.
Instrumentation & Device Development
Current work in Instrumentation & Device Development includes producing VIRUS for HETDEX, GMTNIRS for the Giant Magellan Telescope and the Immersion Grating Infrared Spectrograph (IGRINS).
Interstellar Medium
Exploring HII regions and planetary nebulae, star formation, protoplanetary disks and Spitzer Legacy Projects.
Planetary Systems
Addressing topics related to the solar system and other planetary systems, including planetary atmospheres, comets and asteroids, extrasolar planetary systems and more.
Stellar and Galactic Astrophysics
Research explores stars’ chemical composition, pulsations and evolution, as well as chemical abundances, compact objects, cool stars, galactic structure, space astrometry and stellar clusters and pulsation.
Theory
The Theory Group uses theoretical and computational methods to explore topics ranging from the nature of compact objects to the formation of stars and planets to the properties and evolution of cosmic structure from individual galaxies to the largest scales of the universe.
Centers and Institutes
Learn more about our centers and institutes dedicated to planetary research, theoretical physics and more.
Wootton Center for Astrophysical Plasma Properties
NSF-Simons AI Institute for Cosmic Origins
Center for Planetary Systems Habitability
Facilities
Discover the state-of-the-art facilities available to researchers, including some of the world’s most powerful computing and observation resources.
Student Research Opportunities
Collaborate closely with faculty mentors, engage in hands-on research projects and contribute to discoveries that shape our understanding of the cosmos.