1. Can you describe your role in the SDSS collaboration and what you enjoy most about it?
I am the scheduling software lead for all three SDSS V observatories. Distilling the goals of the various science teams into on-sky realities is as rewarding as it is difficult!
2. Can you tell us about your educational background and how you got interested in the field of astronomy/astrophysics?
I did my undergrad at a small liberal arts college that opened a new observatory my senior year, so I really couldn’t pass up the opportunity. My PhD advisor asked me to take over some SDSS IV software maintenance the next year, and the rest as the say “is history”.
3. What projects are you currently working on and what are you most excited about?
My biggest project right now is probably wrangling SDSS V completion metrics? Figuring out which stars match across three targeting generations and which count towards various current science goals. I’m excited that it can theoretically be done and will be more excited when it is.
4. Can you describe how you balance work and personal life, and what advice would you give to someone just starting in the field?
Boundaries. I work full time, which means Mon-Fri, during reasonable hours, not “whenever I could maybe make a little progress on this thing”. 98% of work can wait till the weekend is over, I just make sure I can identify the 2% that can’t. And the dogs make sure I take breaks.
5. Can you share with us a unique hobby or interest that you have outside of work?
I’ve been doing some home remodeling after I decided working with my hands was fulfilling. I maintain that “making stuff” is rewarding; home remodeling *can be* rewarding.