As a master student I am mostly interested in applying data science techniques to solve long standing questions. My preferred area is galaxy formation/evolution and its connection to large scale structure.
Non-Gaussian fields commonly occur in cosmology, but there is no formalism to treat them. Cosmological parameters are typically measured by first removing all non-Gaussianity. This research will enable direct extraction of parameters from the non-Gaussian fields. The first focus is on generating highly non-Gaussian fields using a HMC sampler. Once that goal is achieved, sufficient statistics will be extracted to measure parameters directly from the non-Gaussian fields. This should help build a formalis such that in the future highly non-Gaussian fields such as measured in weak-lensing surveys or the cosmic web can be analysed.
In my first master thesis I studied the CGM around low redshift galaxies using HST/ACS and HST/COS data of QSO fields. Having written a batch fitting script for GALFIT, the position angles and inclinations were combined with absorption profiles. I found a strongly inhomogeneous distribution of OVI around these galaxies. Finding siginificantly increased absorption perpendicular to disks. For HI little difference with position angle was found. (in prep.) Equivalent width measurements confirm this view. Further work was conducted to find a connection between the strength of the inhomogeneity and the position of galaxies on the star formation main sequence. A weak correlation was found.
Comparing two-body interaction models for stellar system evolution with the full solution to the kinetic equations using angle action coordinates and bi-orthogonal potential density pairs. The disseration explained connections and differences between the two approaches and concluded how the two can be described as the large scale and small scale ends of a single theory.
Producing nano-patterned superconductors with the aim to increase the critical temperature of the material. As part of this project I produced thin film superconductors in a cleanroom through sputtering deposition, electron beam pattern creation and reactive ion etching. The resulting films were inspected using a scanning electron microscope. A final design was used to perform measurements at liquid Helium temperatures.
2018-
Leiden University
2017-2018
University of Oxford
2014-2017
Leiden University
2014-2017
Leiden University
This provides a non-exhaustive overview of my extra curricular activities
Highly selective programme aimed at developing sensitivy for yourself, others and organisations. It provides me with a wealth of insight into how people function and make decisions.
Giving structured help to a group of 5 first-year physics/astronomy students in the form of weekly 2-hour seminars. This TA position covers the core-curriculum and aids struggling students.
Representing all astronomy master students. Responsibilities include course evaluations, approving course listings and generally guarding educational quality
Providing 1.5 hour guided tours in Leiden's "Old Observatory" to varying groups. Tours include guided observations with antique telescopes and introductions to modern astronomy.
Observed 10 hours with the Isaac Newton Telescope during a second year course were small groups of students execute their own project. My group made an intensity map of an eclisping binary star.
Organised the annual Leiden Spring lecture series where, over 4 weeks, four prominent astronomers explain their research to the general public. Roughly 100 people attended each of the lectures.
My full CV can be accessed through this link.