My scientific interests revolve around the origin and evolution of galaxies, and their use as probes of fundamental physics.   Given the complexity of these questions, finding the answers necessarily involves understanding the physical processes in stars, gas, and dark matter, using a mixture of observational and theoretical techniques.

Beyond my research, I am actively engaged in outreach, through writing, teaching, and public speaking.  Within the field of astronomy, my goal is to help dispel the myths that a scientific career is incompatible with a balanced life and decency towards others.