Skip to main content Skip to navigation
Physics and Astronomy Physics
Physics and Astronomy > Academic Subjects > Physics

A. Messick

Alexander Messick

I am a PhD student in Physics and Astronomy working with Dr. Vivienne Baldassare.

I study active galactic nuclei (AGN) in dwarf galaxies. My research focuses on the detection of AGN in the X-ray, but I also examine light from across the spectrum as well as emission lines to classify these sources.

In my free time, I like to play music (mostly guitar and drums), paint, and play video games.

My full CV can be viewed here: (Link).

Office: Webster Physical Sciences 926
E-mail: alexander.messick@wsu.edu

E. Kimbro

Erin Kimbro

I am currently a PhD Student working with Professor Vivienne Baldassare. I am interested in the formation and growth of active galactic nuclei in dwarf galaxies, specifically, in characterizing the galactic environments of dwarf AGN hosts.

Outside of research I enjoy the outdoors, painting and cooking.

My full CV can be viewed here: (Link).

Office: Webster Physical Sciences 926
E-mail: erin.kimbro@wsu.edu

A. Acosta

Allison E. Acosta

I am a PhD student in Physics and Astronomy working with Dr. Vivienne Baldassare.

My interests include but are not limited to extragalactic research, stellar spectroscopy, and exoplanet discovery. My current research project focuses on using tidal disruption events to weigh black holes using the resulting light curves from tidally disrupted stars.

I graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelors of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics in 2020. During my undergraduate years, I actively participated in stellar spectroscopy research, particularly focusing on the chemical composition of Sirius A.

My full CV can be viewed here: (Link).

Office: Webster Physical Sciences 926
E-mail: allison.acosta@wsu.edu

E. Wasleske

Erik J. Wasleske

I am a Ph.D. candidate in Physics and Astronomy working with Prof. Vivienne Baldassare.

I’m particularly interested in characterizing the population of black holes in low-mass galaxies to constrain models of black hole formation and growth. My research interests focus around the multi-wavelength observations of active galactic nuclei in dwarf galaxies. Galaxies can exhibit nuclei activity at different wavelengths and in connecting these emissions to host galaxies properties, we can learn more about the structure and formation of these objects.

Outside of research, I enjoy music, playing saxophone and guitar, and watching sports.

My full CV can be viewed here: (Link).

Office: Webster Physical Sciences 926
E-mail: erik.wasleske@wsu.edu

Equity and Inclusion


Department Equity and Inclusion Statement

 

Washington State University is one of the oldest land-grant universities in the country. This shapes the mission of the University. The goals outlined in the WSU Strategic Plan (2020-2025) include:

  • Providing education for all regardless of means or background;
  • Scholarly activity that benefits the public and especially Washingtonians; and
  • Outreach to the residents of the state to share the institution’s expertise and positively impact people and communities.

In line with these University values, the Physics and Astronomy Department commits to fostering an inclusive environment that is welcoming and supportive to all students, faculty, staff, and visitors, regardless of race, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other aspect of identity. We will treat each other with dignity and respect and ensure that all voices in our community are heard. We also acknowledge the systemic barriers to success that exist within our society and will actively strive to address the causes of inequality within our community.

Resources and Links

Access Center

Directory of Gender Neutral Restrooms on Campus

Gender Identity/Expression and Sexual Orientation Resource Center

Women’s Center

Office of Multicultural Student Services

Cougar Health Counseling and Psychological Services 

Crisis Support Services (including Title IX Office and Center for Community Standards)

International Student Services

Graduate and Professional Student Association Resources

Ombuds Office

Whitman Community Action Center

Food Assistance

WSU Physicists for Inclusion in Science Club

Michael McNeil Forbes

Michael Forbes

Michael McNeil Forbes

Associate Professor of Physics

Office: Webster Physical Sciences 947F Phone: (509) 335-6125 Fax: (509) 335-7816 E-mail: michael.forbes at wsu.edu Research: nuclear many-body theory to answer outstanding questions about superfluids in nuclei, neutron stars, cold atoms; condensed matter and atomic physics; high energy physics (QCD) with applications to astrophysics and cosmology; computer science Website: (Link) » More ...