Jacob L. Bean

Jacob L. Bean is a Professor in the Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics at the University of Chicago. He leads the Bean Exoplanet Group, which specializes in observational studies of extrasolar planets using ground- and space-based telescopes. His research focuses on characterizing exoplanets around low-mass stars and probing planetary atmospheres, particularly through the development of advanced instrumentation like MAROON-X.

Education includes:

• PhD in Astronomy, University of Texas at Austin (2007)
• BS from Georgia Institute of Technology

Research interests span exoplanet detection, atmospheric characterization of small planets, instrumentation development, and low-mass stellar systems. His work combines observational techniques with technological innovation to study planetary formation and composition, especially targeting Earth-like exoplanets.

Publications reveal consistent focus on exoplanet atmospheres, transmission spectroscopy, and instrumentation. Recent articles (2010-2022) predominantly explore atmospheric characterization of super-Earths and hot Jupiters, stellar activity impacts, and next-generation telescope technology. Key themes include JWST data analysis, radial velocity techniques, and M-dwarf planetary systems.

Scientific awards and fellowships:

• Sagan Fellowship
• Marie Curie International Fellowship
• Sloan Research Fellowship
• Packard Fellowship

Advising and research leadership: Mentored 11+ PhD/Master's students (e.g., Madison Brady, Adina Feinstein) with NSF fellowship recipients. Secured major grants for MAROON-X instrumentation development and JWST observation programs. Current projects include atmospheric escape studies and exoplanet mapping.

Leads the Bean Exoplanet Group comprising postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and undergraduates. The group collaborates on NASA missions (JWST, Hubble) and ground-based observatories (Magellan, Gemini). Research emphasizes observational techniques to identify potentially habitable worlds.