Sasha Hinkley

Sasha Hinkley is an Associate Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Exeter, specializing in direct imaging and spectroscopy of extrasolar planetary systems. They utilize ground- and space-based observatories, including ESO facilities, W.M. Keck Observatory, and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), where they lead a 54-hour Early Release Science program.

Research Interests

Their work focuses on high-contrast imaging techniques to detect exoplanets and circumstellar debris disks. They designed and commissioned an infrared imaging spectrometer for Palomar Observatory during their PhD and Caltech postdoctoral tenure. Recent research explores planetary companions in young stellar associations like Scorpius-Centaurus and Beta Pictoris.

Scientific Awards

• NASA Sagan Fellowship
• NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship

Advising & Collaborations

Elisabeth Matthews (MIT postdoc) led a survey on debris disks around young stars, while Aarynn Carter (UC Santa Cruz postdoc) modeled detection limits for Saturn/Neptune analogues. Hinkley manages a 120-member international team for JWST's early science initiatives.