Jacobs, Bradley

Brad is a graduate student at the University of Hawai'i, Institute for Astronomy planning to complete his PhD dissertation in 2011.  He studies stellar populations in nearby galaxies in order to address various topics in cosmology, such as dark matter, galaxy formation, and Large-Scale Structure.  In addition to his research he has taught at various levels, including as an independent lecturer for an astronomy survey course.  He is particularly interested in finding ways to engage the math/science averse students who often end up taking such a course because they think astronomy is the "least scary" of the physical sciences.  Through the ISEE Professional Development Program he has gained knowledge about innovative teaching methods and applied these techniques in multiple college courses.