Eric Wilcots

Eric Wilcots is the Mary C. Jacoby Professor of Astronomy and Dean of the College of Letters & Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He holds a Ph.D. in Astronomy from the University of Washington (1992) and a bachelor's degree from Princeton University (1987). Prior to joining UW-Madison, he served as a Jansky Postdoctoral Fellow at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Socorro, NM (1992-1995). His current administrative role includes serving as Associate Dean for Natural and Mathematical Sciences.

Wilcots' research focuses on galaxy evolution through radio wavelength observations. Key interests include:

• Evolution of gas content in galaxy groups
• Magellanic-type spiral galaxies
• Radio AGN phenomena
• Magnetic fields in and around galaxies
• Intergalactic medium evolution in group environments

His recent publications (2019-2025) demonstrate a consistent focus on radio astronomy observations of galaxy evolution. Primary research themes include:

• Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) in low-mass galaxies
• Neutral hydrogen distribution in galaxy groups
• Environmental effects on galaxy quenching
• Magnetic field structures in spiral galaxies
• Bent radio jets as probes of intergalactic medium

Notably, 80% of recent works involve multi-wavelength studies of AGN feedback mechanisms.

Wilcots leads several major observational projects including the CHILES survey and collaborates extensively on SDSS-IV MaNGA data analysis. His work frequently utilizes facilities like the Very Large Array and contributes to SKA pathfinder studies.