Since childhood I have been fascinated by astronomy. When I realised that I could use maths and computers to do fun things with astronomy, I knew I was hooked for life. I never grew out of it and now I am lucky enough to be a professional astrophysicist. At LCOGT spend most of my time trying to find novel ways to engage the public in astronomy by creating citizen science projects like Agent Exoplanet.
The global education hub for LCOGT is based in Cardiff University where I am an honourary lecturer/adjunct faculty in the School of Physics and Astronomy. One of the enjoyably parts of this position is supervising BSc. and MPhys. level undergraduate projects. I currently have 4 project students investigating extrasolar planets. In addition, I am part of the Public Engagement Team and assist with the outreach of the university.
I co-chair the IAU task force for children and schools, under the guidance of the Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD). Our aim is to help people in astronomically developing countries to engage with and inspire children and teachers.
Currently I am working at how we make our global telescope network accessible to the general public and what tools we need to make the most of its potential.
I regularly appear on the BBC radio wales programme, Science Cafe and have served as guest judge for the national Debating Matters competition. Engaging with the public is fun and I have been lucky enough to do it in several pubs with Ignite Cardiff and Bright Club.
I love music and play the lute. Part of me thinks that makes me closer to a renaissance astronomer, like Galileo.
