Philip Choi

Philip Choi is an Associate Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Pomona College, where he has been affiliated since 2007. His research spans observational astrophysics, focusing on galaxy evolution, star formation, and adaptive optics instrumentation.

Education

• Ph.D. in Physics and Astronomy, University of California Santa Cruz
• Master of Science in Physics and Astronomy, University of California Santa Cruz
• Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Astronomy, Wesleyan University

Research Interests

Choi's work centers on observational studies of galaxy evolution across cosmic timescales. He investigates star formation in young stellar clusters, galaxy interactions in the local universe, and AGN/star formation activity in distant galaxies. A key focus involves integrating Spitzer Space Telescope data with Keck spectroscopy to trace galaxy evolution and AGN activity in the early universe. His instrumental development includes a low-cost adaptive optics system for ground-based telescopes.

Scientific Awards

• National Science Foundation, Major Research Instrumentation grant (2010-2014)
• ARCS Foundation Scholar (2001-2002)
• NASA California Space Grant Fellow (1999-2000)
• NSF Graduate Research Fellow (1996-1999)
• Phi Beta Kappa member (1995)

Advising and Grants: He has mentored undergraduate researchers at Pomona College and secured grants for adaptive optics system development. His lab at Table Mountain Observatory demonstrates commitment to hands-on, cutting-edge astrophysical research.