Joshua Smith

Joshua Smith is a Professor of Physics and Director of the Nicholas and Lee Begovich Center for Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy at California State University Fullerton. As Deputy Director of the Cosmic Explorer next-generation GW detector project, he bridges cutting-edge optics research with large-scale astrophysical discovery.

• Current roles:
  • Professor of Physics
  • Dan Black Director, Begovich Center
  • Deputy Director, Cosmic Explorer
• Research focus:
  • Gravitational wave detector optics
  • LIGO interferometry
  • Detector network characterization
  • Dark matter searches via GW data

His publications span gravitational wave detection methods, optical coating materials, and astrophysical implications of GW observations. Recent work includes next-generation observatory siting criteria and advanced data analysis techniques for transient GW events.

Joshua Smith contributes to open-source detector characterization software and collaborates across the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA network. He leads efforts to improve detector sensitivity through materials science and interferometry innovations, while exploring multi-messenger astrophysics connections.

The Begovich Center under his leadership supports gravitational wave research, education, and public outreach. His team actively participates in Cosmic Explorer R&D initiatives and maintains key detector diagnostics tools used across the global GW community.