All branches of astronomy and astrophysics intrigue me, and my work has encompassed observational surveys and techniques, theory, and instrument design. My LSST-related interests include 1) uncovering the details of merger-induced transitions of galaxies from gas-rich, star forming disks to gas-poor, quiescent spheroids, 2) isolating the physical connections between astrophysical transients, including LIGO-detected kilonovae, and the properties of their host galaxies, 3) finding the best "compound," i.e., multi-plane, gravitational lensing systems for detecting the first galaxies, and 4) measuring the contribution of the intracluster starlight to the total baryons in galaxy clusters and comparing the result to the expectations from Big Bang cosmology. As a member of UA’s Data7 Science Institute, I have a strong interest in using machine learning and visualization tools to classify LSST transients---at the moment of discovery, instead of waiting for a lightcurve---solely from archival data available for their host galaxies. With Jennifer (Jeno) Sokoloski, I was responsible for formulating the idea of the Catalyst Fellowship, including its focus on mentorship, scientific leadership development, and expanding opportunities for women, underrepresented groups, and non-R1 institutions. Over the past several years, I have worked with LSSTC and representatives from the SCs to develop the detailed plan for the Catalyst Fellowship program. I Co-I'ed the successful +$7M proposal to the Templeton Foundation for the program. Other initiatives include helping secure support from the Helsing-Simons Foundation and then co-organizing the resulting Rubin Observatory Project & Community Workshop 2020 session: Building Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion into New LSSTC Programs.
