Distinguished McKnight University Professor (MIfA Director of Graduate Studies), Director , Minnesota Institute for Astrophysicists
I was born and raised in Italy, where I completed my studies at Padova University. During my PhD, I moved to Baltimore, MD and never went back to Italy for work. Before starting my faculty position at UMN, I held two postdoctoral positions at ETH-Zurich and Caltech.
I love my job. The process of asking new questions and finding answers is one of the most rewarding activities for me. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, cooking and the company of my family and friends. I particularly love traveling to telescopes, and the beach! The best trips combine these destinations: Keck, for example, in Hawaii.