Assistant Professor
Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics, University of Toronto
Venturing into unknown horizons and sharing the wonder of discovery is at the heart of my work
as an observational astronomer.
When did the first light emerge in the Universe? How did the first stars and galaxies look like?
These fundamental questions have always driven us to quest for the most distant universe.
Today, we have succeeded in spectroscopy of light emitted just a few hundred million years after the Big Bang.
We continue our efforts, aiming for capturing the first light in the universe.
How do black holes grow to become monsters weighing billions of times more than our Sun? What role do they play in shaping the galaxies around them?
We study these cosmic giants that lie at the hearts of galaxies, including our own Milky Way. Using state-of-the-art telescopes, we witness their dramatic influence on their surroundings and uncover the mysteries of their rapid growth in the early universe.
What drives the endless cycle of star formation in galaxies? How do the building blocks of life spread throughout the cosmos?
Our research unveils the intricate dance between gas, stars, and cosmic dust - the key ingredients that shape galaxy evolution. We track how these components interact and transform, ultimately leading to the formation of new stars and planetary systems.
What secrets lie behind the cosmic veils of dust? How many massive star-forming galaxies are hiding in plain sight?
We explore the "dark side" of galaxy evolution, hunting for massive galaxies that are invisible to optical telescopes. Using advanced infrared and radio telescopes, we reveal these cosmic behemoths that challenge our understanding of galaxy formation.
How can we use Einstein's theory of gravity to create cosmic telescopes? What can we learn about dark matter using these natural magnifying glasses?
We harness the power of massive galaxy clusters that act as natural telescopes, bending and magnifying light from distant galaxies. This remarkable phenomenon allows us to study the faintest and most distant objects in the universe in unprecedented detail.
What happens in the final moments of a star's life? How do stellar explosions enrich the universe with heavy elements?
We investigate the dramatic endings of massive stars through supernovae and their aftermath. These cosmic explosions are crucial laboratories for understanding both stellar physics and the origin of elements necessary for life in the universe.
Apart from research, I’m passionate about traveling, sports, photography, and both outdoor and indoor activities.