Academics
Currently, I am a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Kavli Institute for Cosmology, the University of Cambridge, recently having completed my PhD supervised by Dr Renske Smit and Prof Roberto Maiolino. I am part of the Galaxy Formation and Evolution group (led by Prof Roberto Maiolino), which is affiliated with both the Kavli Institute for Cosmology and Cavendish Laboratory.
Before starting my PhD, I completed the Master of Advanced Study in Astrophysics at the Institute of Astronomy, while for my undergraduate degree, I was at the University of Leiden, studying Physics and Astronomy (for more details, see my CV).
My research interests include galaxy formation and evolution in the early Universe: how the first stars and galaxies were formed, and how they subsequently brought about the Reionization of the Universe, a major phase transition that turned the neutral Universe back to a (mostly) ionised state. To read more, see the science section.
Personal life
Imaging the moon with the largest refractor telescope in the Netherlands (built in 1897), and... an iPhone
Outside of astronomy, I enjoy sports and being outdoors. I’ve played baseball since I was 5, started rowing at university and have since picked up cycling as well. More leisurely, I could often be found cycling through the flat polders of the Netherlands. Having joined Cambridge University’s cycling club, I’ve adapted to the slightly less flat fens around Cambridgeshire. And as for hillier landscapes, I’ve found the UK is also great for hiking!
Outside of my studies to become a professional astronomer, I also enjoy stargazing as an amateur astronomer. At the Old Observatory in Leiden, I learnt to operate the historical six-inch, ten-inch, and photographic double refractor telescopes (dating back to 1838!), as well as being involved in outreach as tour guide and museum custodian. Read more if you would like to learn more about (extragalactic) astronomy!