Emma Alexander

Dr Emma Alexander is a Research Fellow at the School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, where she works on Galactic radio filaments under the supervision of Prof. Mark Thompson. She holds a PhD in Radio Astronomy from the University of Manchester (2022) and has previously worked as a Research Assistant with Dr Paddy Leahy and Prof. Anna Scaife. Her research is centered on non-thermal filaments in the Galactic plane using data from the MeerKAT radio telescope and the SARAO MeerKAT 1.3 GHz Galactic Plane Survey.

Her expertise spans radio astronomy, polarimetry, and magnetic fields in astrophysical contexts, with prior involvement in major surveys such as POSSUM and EMU on the ASKAP telescope. She is a co-builder of the citizen science initiative Radio Galaxy Zoo: EMU, contributing to public engagement in astrophysics. She has applied machine learning techniques to astronomical data analysis and has observational experience with facilities like ATCA.

Emma is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society (FRAS) and an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA). She actively participates in science communication through media appearances, public outreach, and educational programs, including serving as an on-board astronomer for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. She is based in Leeds, Yorkshire, and is an advocate for social justice, particularly in support of Palestinian rights and trans equality.

Her recent professional activities include participation in major astronomy conferences such as NAM2025 in Durham and SKAO2025 in Görlitz, reflecting her active engagement in the international astrophysics community.