Hi, I’m Lauren Biddle, Treasurer for the Astronomy Club at the University of Arizona and here are a few things about me:

Research Experience

Using Kepler data and under the direction of graduate students at Steward Observatory I have studied stellar variability as a function of star cycle, star type, rotational period, and stellar activity.
Using data from the 12-meter radio telescope on Kitt Peak, and under the direction of Professor Yancey Shirley, I have participated in the data reduction, and analysis of infall rates of cold molecular clouds in Perseus.
Using photometry of transiting extrasolar planets taken at our 61” optical Kuiper telescope and under the direction of employees of UA’s Lunar and Planetary Lab, I have studied the potential connections between the magnetic fields of hot Jupiters and their host stars’ stellar magnetic fields, including the possibility of observable bow shocks and transit timing variations between different optical bands.
I am also presently involved in collaboration with several institutions to take near-infrared photometry observations of Hot-Neptune GJ 3470b so as to provide constraints of planetary parameters in support of the exoplanet’s atmospheric characterization. In conjunction with this, I am very interested in participating in spectroscopy and characterization of atmospheres.

Goals

Short Term

My short-term goal is to utilize time management to complete the many research projects I have started.  By the end of the summer, I want to:

·      Write and submit a paper on the exoplanetary characterization of GJ 3470b

·      I also will complete the data reduction on the radio astronomy research project and assist in the publication of a paper on the infall of molecular clouds and potential proto star formation.

·      I will continue my participation on the Kepler research project on stellar variability, which will continue on to next semester.

·      Last, I want to expand my knowledge of coronal mass ejections, performing research at an REU for the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics at the University of Colorado.

Long Term

My long-term goal is to be accepted into graduate school with a focus on a specific area of study.  I participate in several different topics right now to assist in my decision of which subject I want to pursue for my career.

Hobbies/Interests

I enjoy many other activities as well! I appreciate music of all types, whether it be Bach, Bruce Springsteen, Kaskade or Asking Alexandria. My other hobbies include playing video games, softball, basketball, camping/fishing, and cooking.  I also play the piano whenever I have the opportunity. I love art too, and I am talented with crafting and creative writing.

My favorite movies are “Contact,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” “A Bronx Tale,” “Field of Dreams,” and of course, “Star Wars.”

My favorite books are Phillip Paulman’s “His Dark Materials,” “The Lovely Bones,” “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and “The Giving Tree.”

You can follow me on twitter @lolobiddle.