Current Research and Ongoing Projects

Part of the Star Formation Group at UVa

Analysis of the early evolution of super star clusters:

• Upcoming optical spectral observations with the 4m Mayall telescope at Kitt Peak and the 6m Multi-Mirror Telescope
• Data gathered with the 3.5m telescope at Apache Point Observatory and Gemini
• Utilizing archival HST and SPITZER data and published radio information to expand the multi-wavelength view
• Observations with the new IFU at APO to investigate the WR line and assist in developing the instrument with the Goddard team

Past research

undergraduate work at University of Colorado

The first X-ray detected WO (oxygen-type Wolf-Rayet) star WR 142. Chandra ACIS-I spectra of WR 142 and OB stars for comparison, see Sokal et al. 2010.

Specializing in star formation and Wolf-Rayet stars with Dr. Stephen Skinner at CASA (Center for Astrophysics and Space Astronomy):

• X-ray survey of single WR stars, including a Chandra ACIS observation of the rare oxygen type Wolf-Rayet star WR 142.
• X-ray and infrared studies of the cluster NGC 2071 using an Chandra ACIS observation, archive Spitzer data, and an upcoming MMT observation.
• Analysis of X-ray emission from FU Orionis stars using data obtained with XMM-Newton , including V1735 Cyg.
• X-ray observations of Sigma Ori. This research uses data from Chandra ACIS-S/HETG (High Energy Transmission Grating).
• Spitzer observations of the massive protostar IRAS 20126+4104 and its shocked outflow using IRAC images.
• Multiwavelength investigations of the young cluster NGC 6193, focused on Spitzer IRAC and MIPS data, with some comparisons to the 2Mass database and images from Chandra and Pico dos Dios.