About Dr. Katy Rodriguez Wimberly
Katy Rodriguez Wimberly is an NSF Math & Physical Sciences Ascend Postdoctoral Fellow at UC Riverside. She studies near–field cosmology and galaxy evolution focusing on ultra–faint dwarf galaxies — researching these possible relics of the first galaxies ever formed to learn more about the early universe, how the earliest galaxies evolve throughout history, and how they can be used as a tool to learn more about our own galaxy, the Milky Way. Alongside her astrophysics research, Katy is passionate about outreach and mentorship. She is on the Board of Directors for the Astronomical Society of the Pacific — the oldest astronomical society in the country and leader in astronomy outreach. She also serves as the Director of Peer Mentorship for the Cal–Bridge Scholarship Program, where her aim is to normalize a holistic approach to academic success and strengthen marginalized communities.