Kinetic plasma turbulence is my primary research interest, with an emphasis on high-performance computational studies of turbulence in space and astrophysical plasmas using the Astrophysical Gyrokinetics code, AstroGK. My broader research program involves the coordinated use of analytical theory, numerical simulations, spacecraft observations, and laboratory experiments to understand how the kinetic physics of plasma turbulence leads to the energization of particles.

Third year graduate student working on particle acceleration and plasma heating in collisionless shocks using the field-particle correlation technique.

Sarah Horvath does research in computational space plasma physics. This includes running high-resolution simulations of turbulent solar wind plasma in order to better understand the process of Landau damping by electrons: a mechanism that contributes to the heating of the solar wind as it expands outward from the Sun. Characterizing this mechanism within simulations can provide theoretical framework for interpreting data from current and future spacecraft missions.

Rui Huang is interested in theoretical and computational astrophysics. Shes is currently working with Prof. Howes on a project studying the plasma turbulence theory.

Andrew’s research focus is using computational techniques to study fundamental plasma physics. His thesis work involves investigating energy transfer mechanisms in collisionless magnetic reconnection. He has developed analysis software and simulation diagnostics to probe properties of astrophysical and heliospheric plasmas to better understand plasma heating processes

Dan is currently employed as an aerospace engineer while he pursues a Ph.D.