I am interested in understanding ISM physics, galaxy formation and evolution. I have also worked on the detailed study of the star formation history and gas content of void galaxies. My current projects study the physics of the ISM in nearby galaxies on physically resolved (<50pc) scales using optical IFU observations.
Much of my work is carried out within the PHANGS collaboration. As survey scientist, I am also involved in planning an optical IFU survey of the local group, the Local Volume Mapper (LVM), part of SDSS-V.
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To understand galaxies, we must understand the physical processes and local conditions that drive their buildup of stellar mass through star formation. This evolution is regulated through the baryon cycle, the transformation of gas into stars and eventual ejection and recycling of that material to form the next generation of stars. Meet the researchers who are leading these efforts.
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After completing my PhD at Columbia University in NYC, I have spent time as a postdoctoral researcher in Heidelberg at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy. Since 2019 I have led a DFG funded Emmy Noether research group at Heidelberg University. In 2023 I began my ERC Starting Grant project: ISM-METALS.
Learn moreRecent news and press releases
The Webb Space Telescope continues to provide images of unprecedented clarity at infrared wavelengths helping to reveal missing pieces of the star formation puzzle (February 2024)
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A new paper led by Dr. Méndez-Delgado identifies unresolved temperature variations in highly ionized gas as the cuprit (May 2023)
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A special focus issue of The Astrophysical Journal Letters highlights PHANGS-JWST results (February 2023)
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ISM-METALS project funded, press releases: ERC, Heidelberg University, ZAH (November 2022)
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JWST and NASA press release (January 2022)
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New ESO images reveal stunning features of nearby galaxies (July 2021)
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