About
Burçin Mutlu-Pakdil is an observational astrophysicist and Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Dartmouth College. Her research focuses on understanding galaxy formation and dark matter through studies of dwarf galaxies and peculiar ringed galaxies. She is renowned for discovering a rare double-ringed elliptical galaxy, now known as 'Burçin’s Galaxy,' challenging traditional models of galaxy evolution.
- Education:
- B.S. in Physics, Bilkent University (Turkey)
- M.Sc. in Astrophysics, Texas Tech University (USA)
- Ph.D. in Astrophysics, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (USA)
Her work has been featured in prominent media outlets like CNN, Science Daily, and National Geographic, and she is a 2018 TED Fellow, 2020 TED Senior Fellow, and AAAS IF/THEN Ambassador. She uses large imaging surveys and telescope observations to explore galaxy dynamics and dark matter halos.
Awards include the 2017 Linda Larson Woman of the Year and recognition as a JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP). She advocates for women and minorities in STEM, leveraging platforms like TED Talks and educational media to inspire future scientists.
