I’m an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics & Astrophysics at the University of North Dakota. I’m a quantum optician by training, which means that I’m an expert in engineering light sources, interactions of light with its environment and measurement techniques for small quantities of light in general. During my PhD I learned to develop optical measurement techniques for quantum optics and telecommunication. Since 2019 I shifted my focus further towards optical sensing. I’ve worked on projects related to spectroscopy with quantum light, and lately environmental sensing.
Moving my research from the optics lab to questions related to the environment and climate change allowed me to combine my scientific expertise with my passion for the outdoors. I experience through hiking, rock climbing, mountaineering and skiing. Developing optical sensing equipment for environmental science and climate research gives me the opportunity to make connections with researchers outside of physics and to spend more time in the environment I love. I believe that developing easy to use, portable and low cost instrumentation brings more people into the fight against climate change and opens research up to those without six-figure research grants. In the lab, I’m exited to work in interdisciplinary teams and give physics-support to researchers in engineering and earth science.
Private Life
As an avid long-distance runner, gravel cyclist and skier I like to spend my free time out on the trails. I especially enjoy skate skiing the trails near my home in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The running community has been a home wherever home has been at the time and has connected me with amazing folks around the world. After a long day out, I enjoy home-made Pizza, bad movies and good espresso.