Welcome to the Black Hole Galaxy Connection Group of George Mason University!
We conduct an active research program in the D.C. area aimed at understanding the origin of supermassive black holes, their growth, and how they are connected to the host galaxies in which they reside. We conduct both theoretical modeling and observations using a broad range of both ground- and space-based observatories, including Chandra, XMM-Newton, NuSTAR, Keck, the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT), and Gemini, with local and international collaborators. We are passionate about our research and believe strongly in following our curiosity. Our core beliefs are:
We believe first and foremost in honesty and integrity in the way we carry out science
We believe in kindness in how we treat others
We believe questioning the universe is fundamental to being human
We believe in working hard with conviction and strive for excellence in our work
We believe in collaboration and working as a team and celebrating each other’s success
We believe every voice is important, regardless of experience or academic level
We believe in inclusion in our group, and believe that diversity brings fresh new ideas to our field
We believe that scientific outreach and public service are an integral part of our responsibilities as scientists
We believe that grit is crucial for success
We believe in having perspective and to never sacrifice sleep
We believe in having courage to choose your own path and in being bold in asking questions
“to be nobody
but yourself in a world which is doing
its best day and night to
make you everybody else
means to fight the hardest
battle which any
human being can
fight and never
stop fighting.”
— E.E. Cummings
The goal of of this blog is to provide important resources to learn about black holes, tips for students interested in pursuing this field, career advice, and to post news and events in our group.
