Ben Margalit

Ben Margalit is an active Assistant Professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Minnesota, specializing in theoretical astrophysics with a focus on high-energy transient phenomena. His research centers on time-domain astronomy, particularly neutron star mergers, gravitational-wave events, fast radio bursts, gamma-ray bursts, and supernovae.

His research interests span theoretical astrophysics with emphasis on radiative processes, compact objects, neutron star equation-of-state, circumstellar interaction, non-thermal emission, accretion, nuclear astrophysics, and various types of shocks in astrophysical environments. His work integrates theoretical modeling with observational data to understand extreme cosmic events.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on fast radio bursts (FRBs) and their host environments, with significant work on neutron star physics, shock dynamics, and multi-wavelength observations of transients. His research shows increasing emphasis on connecting theoretical models with observational constraints from facilities like CHIME.

Dr. Margalit currently leads two major research projects: Accurately Modeling Emission from Fast, Mildly-Relativistic Transients funded by the National Science Foundation (2025-2028) and Not so heavy metal: an enhanced rate of SLSNe at Cosmic Noon funded by Research Corporation (2025-2026), demonstrating substantial grant acquisition capability.

He is affiliated with the Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics and collaborates extensively with researchers globally, particularly in the fast radio burst community. His work contributes significantly to understanding high-energy transient phenomena and their underlying physical mechanisms in the universe.