Sophia Chan Davis Email & Phone Number

United States

Nantucket, Massachusetts, United States

I focus on investigating the origins of planetary nebulae in globular clusters, utilizing advanced X-ray observations to enhance our understanding of stellar evolution. I work under the guidance of Dr. Rodolfo Montez Jr. from the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics as my research advisor and Dr. Regina Jorgenson as my program supervisor.In addition to my research responsibilities, I serve as an astronomy outreach liaison at Loines Observatory. My key research responsibilities:-Analyze two decades of archival data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory to study planetary nebulae in globular clusters.-Utilize Python-based tools to process and interpret X-ray observations.-Generate synthetic images of X-ray point sources using the MARX X-ray source simulation software.-Develop and implement tests to determine the confidence of the extended or point-like nature of detected X-ray sources.My key public outreach responsibilities:-Assist in conducting public open nights at the Loines Observatory twice a week.-Provide talks about the history of the Maria Mitchell Association followed by constellation tours.-Operate a manual 8-inch telescope and computerized 24-inch telescope, offering facts about observed celestial objects and the telescopes.-Engage and educate the public, fostering a greater appreciation for astronomy through interactive and informative sessions.

Nantucket, Massachusetts, United States

I specialize in developing and delivering dynamic astronomy education programs specifically designed for the Junior Astronomers Camp. This role is dedicated to inspiring young minds and fostering a deep appreciation for astronomy through engaging and interactive learning experiences.My key responsibilities:-Design and implement age-appropriate astronomy education programs and lessons for children aged 7-11 participating in the Junior Astronomers Camp.-Collaborate closely with camp counselors to align weekly lesson plans with camp goals, camper interests, and educational standards.-Conduct regular meetings with camp counselors to gather insights, receive feedback, and adjust lesson plans and activities to meet camper needs effectively.

As a team member of COFFIES (Consequence Of Fields and Flows in the Interior and Exterior of the Sun), a NASA-funded Heliophysics Phase II DRIVE Science Center, I contribute to a multi-institution collaboration aimed at developing the most reliable data-driven physical model of solar activity.My key responsibilities:-Participate in the Beans community, supporting early-career scientists with access to professional development opportunities and resources.-Engage actively in the POISE (Public Outreach and Informal Science Education) Initiative to increase public enthusiasm and support for NASA science.-Contribute to public awareness and interest in the intricacies of the Sun and its impact on the heliophysics community.-Assist in motivating and guiding the next generation in STEM fields through outreach activities.-Respond to inquiries from high school students and similar audiences, facilitating their connection with the appropriate contacts within the COFFIES community for potential involvement.

Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States

As a Planetarium Presenter at the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, I play a crucial role in enhancing visitor experiences and educational outreach.My key responsibilities:-Operate and manage start-up and shut-down procedures for the planetarium's mechanical systems.-Present scripted planetarium shows developed by the museum, as well as create and deliver customized presentations.-Ensure crowd control and provide engaging educational experiences during planetarium sessions.

Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States

As a Research Co-Lead at CLAWS (Collaborative Lab for Advancing Work in Space), I collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of student designers and engineers focused on the NASA SUITS challenge. Our goal is to develop an Augmented Reality (AR) interface to support astronauts during lunar and Martian missions, advancing future space exploration efforts.My key responsibilities:-Conduct academic research on AR technology, AR design, astronaut Extravehicular Activities (EVAs), and related topics to inform our team's AR design and development decisions.-Write research papers and articles contributing to academic literature on AR/EVAs, and expand CLAWS documentation for potential submission to academic conferences.-Facilitate and lead research meetings, providing guidance and support to the research team.

As a Recruitment Ambassador for CLAWS, I collaborated with fellow team members to recruit new members for the 2023-2024 cycle. My responsibilities included creating promotional materials, attending recruiting events, and serving as a spokesperson for the organization.My key responsibilities:-Developed and wrote promotional material to attract new members to CLAWS.-Represented CLAWS at recruiting events, informing potential members about our mission and activities.-Collaborated with the recruitment team to strategize outreach efforts and expand our membership base.

As the Undergraduate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Representative for the University of Michigan's Department of Astronomy, I actively participate in committee meetings and advocate for DEI matters within the astronomy undergraduate student community. I serve as a spokesperson to promote inclusivity and equity, fostering an environment that values diversity and supports excellence in scientific endeavors. My key responsibilities:-Attend meetings with fellow committee members to discuss and address DEI issues within the department.-Advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to enhance the astronomy undergraduate student experience.-Collaborate on projects and initiatives aimed at improving diversity and inclusivity within the department and university.-Act as a liaison between the student body and department faculty/staff regarding DEI concerns and initiatives.

Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States

As a Research Assistant at the Center for Astrophysics, Harvard & Smithsonian, I worked under Dr. Michael Stevens, Lucas Guliano, and Dr. Tatiana Niembro Hernandez to assess the accuracy of measuring the magnitude and angle at which interplanetary shockwaves impact Earth. This involved conducting statistical and geometric analyses using data collected from four spacecraft (Wind, ACE, DSCOVR, SOHO). I also participated in scientific outreach initiatives within the organization such as the Cambridge Science Festival. I am currently assisting on a first-author paper in-prep.My key responsibilities:-Identified potential shock candidates in the Wind database and conducted R-H analyses to confirm their shockwave status.-Analyzed shock observations from ACE, DSCOVR, and SOHO databases to compare and glean insights into the structure and predictability of interplanetary shock waves.-Utilized IDL for data processing and analysis tasks.

As a Research Assistant at the University of Michigan, working under PhD candidate Anne Blackwell and Dr. Joel Bregman, I focus on high-energy extragalactic spectroscopy to address the Missing Metal Conundrum in galaxy clusters. This involves identifying the sources of excess metals in these clusters through the analysis of X-ray data. My key responsibilities include:-Conduct X-ray data reduction and analysis using data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory and the XMM-Newton Mission.-Extract X-ray spectra and perform data calibration to ensure accuracy and reliability of the data.-Utilize various software tools and programming languages to analyze and interpret the data, including Bash, Statistic Analysis Software (SAS), Xspec, SAOImage ds9, CIAO, and XQuartz.

As a Research Assistant under Professor Steven J. Miller at Williams College, I contributed to advanced mathematical research focusing on generalizing depth two recurrence sequences with arbitrary coefficients and the Tribonacci numbers. Additionally, my team and I explored recurrence relations of (a, b) balancing and cobalancing numbers, as well as their respective balancers and cobalancers, to derive unique coefficient solutions. I also co-authored the research paper titled “Reciprocal Sums of Recurrence Relations,” which was published in the Fibonacci Quarterly in December 2022.My key responsibilities included:-Conducted in-depth mathematical research on recurrence sequences and related topics.-Utilized Mathematica for complex calculations and data analysis.-Collaborated with a research team to develop and refine theoretical models.-Prepared and presented research findings at the 20th International Fibonacci Conference at the University of Sarajevo in July 2022.

As a NASA Solar Eclipse Ambassador, I collaborated with my partner Buddy Stark to plan and host educational outreach events targeting K-12 students in underserved science communities within the metro-Detroit area. This initiative, part of the "Eclipse Ambassadors off the Paths" program, aimed to engage communities outside the path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse. We also gained recognition from local news groups and radio stations for outreach efforts.My key responsibilities included:-Planned and executed educational events focused on solar eclipses and related astronomical topics.-Conducted outreach efforts in public libraries and museums, reaching over 250 community members.-Educated local communities on safe solar viewing practices for the 2023 and 2024 solar eclipses.-Received training from NASA and the ASP on eclipse science, safe solar viewing, scientific communication, public engagement, and event planning.-Participated in mandatory training sessions as a component of the Eclipse Ambassador program.

Southaven, Mississippi, United States

In this position, I provide excellent customer service by greeting customers and meeting quality expectations established by the values of Baskin Robbins. I take orders, prepared meals, and collected payments. I also train new hires in customer service, food preparation, and restaurant procedures.

Memphis, Tennessee, United States

In this position, I collaborated with parents to create tutoring sessions appropriate for a student's age, learning preference, and learning style. I improved test scores by focusing on reading comprehension, math, and critical thinking skills through one-on-one tutoring. I also maintained detailed files and created charts to track students' learning progress.

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Astronomy And Astrophysics

Activities and Societies: Douglass Houghton Scholars Program, Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, Meijer Scholars Program.

Education record

Activities and Societies: Interact Club, International Club, Speech and Debate, Mayor’s Youth Council, Mu Alpha Theta, Jagathon, DC.