Katy Rodriguez Wimberly — PHD Candidate and NSF Graduate Research Fellow in the UC Irvine Physics & Astronomy Department — studies galaxy evolution using optical telescopes and cosmological simulations. Katy has contributed to multiple published works, including a first-author paper confirming the ancient history of the smallest known galaxies. She’s presented her work at numerous conferences, and as an invited seminar speaker. Additionally, Katy is on the Board of Directors for the Astronomical Society of the Pacific working to extend astronomy outreach and science communication opportunities to young, diverse astronomers. At UCI, Katy co-created and leads a “near-peer” mentoring organization focusing on normalizing a holistic approach to success for 1st-year graduate students and strengthening the community through trained mentors. Additionally, she is the Cal-Bridge Director of Peer Mentoring building programing for all current and former scholars to connect and learn from one another. Aside from all things astronomy and mentoring, Katy’s enjoying her new life role as a mama! Family time with her husband, daughter and pup is her favorite hobby - this includes lots of laughs, hikes and baby snuggles!
