Brandon Barker

Biography

I am entering my fifth year as a physics and mathematics double major and astronomy minor at the University of Tennessee. My areas of interest are characterizations of the supernova explosion mechanism and gravitational wave astrophysics – and in particular the intersection of these fields. I have spent a summer researching binary neutron star mergers in Pisa, Italy at the Instituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, and have several years experience research various topics in supernova theory. I have been heavily invested in my SPS chapter, holding several officer positions over the years. I’ve had the honor of coordinating many of our chapter’s outreach and conference activities such as hosting public demos, organizing conference trips, and holding panels and workshops that promote the professional development of students in our department. I am also involved in a university wide undergraduate research journal as a member of the editorial board and a member of the executive board of the Undergraduate Research Students’ Association on campus. Through these organizations, I promote undergraduate research to all students across the university. Over the years I have developed a passion for science outreach. Our SPS chapter hosts several outreach events, from public science demos to an annual pumpkin drop. Additionally, I have spent innumerable hours serving at local Title I elementary schools doing science experiments and activities with children. After graduation, I hope to spend a year in Germany on a Fulbright studying astrophysics at the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics. From there, I will pursue a PhD in theoretical astrophysics. I hope to find a way to combine my love for research with my passion for outreach. In my spare time, I enjoy nature photography, hiking, and expanding my musical skills.