Hungry Physicist

2017-Present

We each understand the Universe through pathways connected to our interests and experiences. As the Hungry Physicist, I aim to reach viewers curious about science who connect with food and cooking.

Physics, Chemistry, Culinary Arts

Rapid Response Team

July 2014 – Present

The Adler Planetarium responds to breaking science news quickly through the RRT. We assess the significance, craft internal and external messaging, and determine the appropriate scope of the response.

Space Flight, Astrophysics, Asronomy, Cosmology

WOW! Signal

October 2020 – December 2021

The pandemic set the stage for out-of-the-box thinking to engage with guests in non-physical ways. WOW! Signal is a space science comedy series where I contributed as a video editor and space visualizer.

Astronomy, Astrophysics, Cosmology

Colors in the Kitchen

July 2021

I partnered with an Hispanic community family event called “Casitas Para Pajaritos” to conduct a science activity. I demonstrated how boiled red cabbage water can change the color of various kitchen liquids.

Chemistry

Galaxy Ride

August 2017

I participated in a mobile partnership between the Adler Planetarium, Southern Illinois University, and several schools to provide in-person activities focused on the August 2017 Total Solar Eclipse.

Astronomy, Planetary Science

Stellar Cartography

2016

I wrote and presented this Star Trek-themed show to demonstrate that fictional elements of the series are loosely rooted in fact. The show thrusted guests into a stellar cartography class at Starfleet Academy.

Astronomy, Popular Culture

Death from the Skies

2012-2016

I collaborated in writing and presenting this spooky Halloween show for our over-21 crowd. It explored the many ways the Universe is trying to kill you, from meteorites and galaxy collisions to the Great Freeze.

Astronomy, Astrophysics, Cosmology

Gotcha!

2015

I collaborated in writing and presenting this April Fools’ show for our over-21 crowd. It showcased science-based practical jokes pulled on the public, including the famous War of the Worlds radio play.

Astronomy, Popular Culture

That’s No Moon

2015

I wrote and presented this Star Wars-themed show to highlight moons that often go unnoticed. Our solar system contains hundreds of moons, each with stunning features and a story to tell.

Astronomy, Popular Culture

Apollo 13 Crisis Boxes

April 2015

Crewed space exploration relies on cleverness, resourcefulness, and a certain degree of luck. This exhibit demonstrates a challenge mission control had to overcome to bring the Apollo 13 crew home safely.

History of Human Space Flight

Informal Education Carts

2012-2015

Popup informal education makes each museum visit feel unique, relevant, and personally engaging. I contributed to writing and producing content resource documents used to train staff for these activities.

Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Human Space Flight

Appearances

• Fox32 – “Adler Planetarium announces partial reopening for Sky Shows“ 7/2/2021 (Link)
• Weather.com, ABC national, ABC-7 Chicago, CBS national, NASA EDGE, WGN Radio, WTTW, PBS, Planetary Radio – “Total Eclipse Coverage from Carbondale, IL” 8/21/2017
• Nerdette Podcast – “Live at Adler Planetarium: Pi Day!” 3/14/2015 (Link)
• Chicago Tribune – “Master of the Universe” 3/18/2008 (Link)

Science Publications

• Acioli, P. H., Burkland, S., & Srinivas, S. (2012). An exploration of the potential energy surface of the seven atom silver cluster and a carbon monoxide ligand. The European Physical Journal. D, Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics, 66(8). (Link)
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