I'm a theoretical astrophysicist at the University of Melbourne. My current research focuses on studies of dark matter and the evolution of the first stars and galaxies.
I have worked in several areas of cosmology, early universe theory, and particle physics, studying a wide range of phenomena from relics of the big bang to the growth of supermassive black holes. The unifying goal in all my work is to find ways to use observational cosmology to better understand the fundamental physical nature of the components and evolution of the universe.
In addition to research, I participate in a variety of science outreach activities including the University of Melbourne's Telescopes in Schools program.
I also maintain a popular-level cosmology blog called The Universe in Theory (astrokatie.blogspot.com.au) and you can find me on Twitter (@AstroKatie) where I occasionally share thoughts on astrophysics, science popularisation, life as a researcher in academia, and other personal musings.
(Disclaimer: Views expressed on Twitter or my blog are mine alone and not endorsed by any other person or institution.)