Reflecting on a Milestone: Transitioning from Harvard to a New Academic Journey
As an astronomer, I recently experienced a significant professional milestone—my last day working at Harvard University. While I acknowledge that sharing such personal reflections on a public platform might raise some questions, I believe it’s important to celebrate these moments of transition that mark both the culmination of an era and the beginning of a new chapter.
My five years at Harvard have been truly transformative. The opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking research, collaborate with esteemed colleagues, and engage with a vibrant academic community have enriched my career in countless ways. The memories formed during this period will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors.
One of the highlights of my time there was working beneath the iconic dome housing the Great Refractor—the very telescope that was once the largest in the world during the 19th century. This historic instrument played a pivotal role in astronomical discoveries, notably the identification of several moons orbiting Saturn. Being situated in a place steeped in such rich scientific history was both inspiring and humbling.
Looking ahead, I am thrilled to share that I will be joining the University of Oregon as a professor. This new role presents exciting opportunities to continue my research, inspire the next generation of astronomers, and contribute to the ongoing pursuit of knowledge about our universe.
Although leaving Harvard is bittersweet, I am eager to embrace the challenges and possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way—this is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my academic journey.