The Unifying Framework
Bridging theoretical models and complex measurements, from high-energy-density plasmas to professional baseball, using Bayesian computational methods to quantify uncertainty and uncover physical insights.
My academic and professional journey has been driven by a continuous pursuit of applying rigorous physical models to complex systems. I began by studying Astrophysics and Planetary Science at Villanova University, during which I also worked as a student research intern at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). I then went on to earn my PhD in Physics at the University of Rochester, conducting my graduate research on laser-driven implosions at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE). Following my doctorate, I returned to LLNL as a Lawrence Postdoctoral Fellow. I eventually transitioned my focus to the sports industry, initially joining the Houston Astros as their Lead Innovator. Today, I serve as the Senior Director of Research and Development for the Astros, overseeing the department's technical vision, while maintaining my connection to academia as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Rochester.
Academic Background
Ph.D., High Energy Density Physics
Thesis: Bayesian Inference of Fundamental Physics at Extreme Conditions
Advisors: Profs. Gilbert Collins & Ryan Rygg
M.A., Physics
B.S., Astrophysics and Planetary Science
Career Path
Visiting Assistant Professor
Advise graduate students in HEDP research and experimental design. Engage mechanical engineering students in research projects and advise senior design projects. Collaborate with faculty on new research initiatives.
Senior Director of Research & Development
Oversee ~20 technical staff including post-graduate researchers and software engineers. Set the technical and research direction for the organization. Manage ~$5M annual budget. Direct the design and development of the Astros' research and product software infrastructure.
Lead Innovator
Applied Bayesian-physical models to baseball systems. Conducted original research in biomechanics, rigid body mechanics, and aerodynamics. Developed and budgeted implementation plans for research projects across departments.
Lawrence Postdoctoral Fellow
Managed self-directed research project funded for ~$1.2M over 3 years. Developed novel thermal physics models to interpret experimental and observational data. Applied Bayesian modelling to stellar models and observations.
Awards & Fellowships
Lawrence Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 2021 — $1.2M three-year fellowship supporting post-doctoral research.
Frank J. Horton Graduate Research Fellowship
Laboratory for Laser Energetics, 2017 — Fellowship covering graduate research and tuition.
Medallion Award
Villanova University, 2016 — Awarded to the top graduating student in each college.
Jason Cardelli Memorial Award
Villanova University, 2016 — Outstanding undergraduate research in Astrophysics and Planetary Science.