Todd A. Thompson

Todd A. Thompson is a Professor in the Department of Astronomy at The Ohio State University, where he has been a faculty member since 2007. His research spans theoretical astrophysics, with a focus on core-collapse supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, starburst galaxies, and the role of radiation pressure in galactic evolution. He is renowned for developing the millisecond magnetar model for gamma-ray burst central engines and for proposing that galaxy-black hole co-evolution is regulated by radiation pressure on dust.

• Education: Ph.D. in Physics (2002, University of Arizona); B.A. in Physics and Philosophy (1997, Lawrence University)

Research Interests: Theoretical astrophysics, including supernovae mechanisms, r-process nucleosynthesis in neutron star formation, magnetar spindown, starburst galaxies, and the feedback processes linking AGN and star formation. His work integrates analytic, semi-analytic, and numerical methods to study high-energy phenomena and galactic dynamics.

Scientific Contributions: He has published extensively on protoneutron star winds, magnetic field amplification in supernova remnants, cosmic ray emission, and triple compact star systems. His 15 most recent articles reflect expertise in radiation-driven starburst disks, magnetar-powered GRBs, and the FIR-radio correlation in galaxies.

• 2014: Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching at OSU
• 2009: Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship

Teaching: Has taught courses like Atomic and Radiative Processes in Astrophysics and Electromagnetic Radiation since joining OSU. His pedagogical approach blends advanced coursework with research mentorship.