I am a Research Scientist at Caltech studying how supermassive black holes accrete. I combine observations across the spectrum with physical models I develop to understand the different components of these systems.
Featured research
I study accreting supermassive black holes, from the corona and inner disk to the gas that obscures them. I also help run the science operations of NuSTAR and build the upcoming UVEX mission.
How the X-ray corona heats the accretion disk and drives the ultraviolet and optical variability we see in active galactic nuclei. I develop the physical models that turn these delayed echoes into a picture of the innermost accretion flow.
XRISM now resolves the iron lines in active galactic nuclei finely enough to separate the gas moving at different speeds around the black hole. I use this to map the inner disk, the broad-line region, and the obscuring gas that earlier telescopes blurred together.
Since 2021, IXPE has let us measure the polarization of X-rays from active galactic nuclei, a completely new handle on the geometry of the innermost regions. I use it to work out where the X-rays come from and how much of what we see is reflection off the disk.
When X-rays reflect off the inner edge of the accretion disk, they carry the fingerprint of how fast the black hole spins. I study how to read that fingerprint, and when the standard methods can be trusted to give the right answer.
Publications
Selected papers and my full publication record.
Writing
I'm planning to share notes on my research, new papers, and X-ray astronomy here. Check back soon.
I welcome inquiries about research collaborations, student mentoring, and speaking invitations. Get in touch anytime.