About Me
I am a senior at the University of Rochester pursuing a B.S. in
Physics and Astronomy with a minor in Mathematics. My main research
interests include large-scale spectroscopic galaxy surveys and exoplanet
detection methods, as well as exoplanet formation, composition, and evolution.
I currently work with Professor
Segev BenZvi investigating galaxy spectra using data from the Sloan Digital
Sky Survey (SDSS), in preparation for the upcoming Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument
(DESI). I have also worked with Professor BenZVi on his research at the High-Altitude
Water Cherenkov Gamma-Ray Observatory (HAWC). My research projects have included
designing and simulating water-cherenkov tanks for HAWC, searching for
TeV gamma-ray binary systems, and analyzing possible Fermi
Bubble structure in the M31 Andromeda galaxy.
I also work for the Department of Physics and Astronomy (PAS) as a
teaching assistant, and am a summer tour guide at the C.E.K. Mees
Observatory. I am also one of the peer advisors in the PAS department.
On campus I have served as president of the
University of Rochester Astronomy Club and am a volunteer tutor for
the UR Society of Physics Students (SPS). I also write science articles
for the Campus Times and am a trek leader for the Freshmen Orientation
Outing Treks (UR FOOT). I love being involved with the campus community,
sharing my experiences with incoming students, and working on
challenging physics problems with my friends and classmates. When
I'm not studying or in the Physics, Optics, and Astronomy Library (POA),
I can usually be found in the weight room, reading, or playing Kerbal
Space Program.
Contact: Email rrubenza@u.rochester.edu