Professor of Astronomy
mauro@astro.umass.edu
Education:
PhD, University of Rome, “La Sapienza”, 1992
Office:
LGRT-B-520
Address:
University of Massachusetts
Department of Astronomy
LGRT-B 619E
710 North Pleasant Street
Amherst, MA 01003-9305
Phone Number:
413-545-4767
Fax:
413-545-4223
Research Interests:
I am an observational astronomer and my research focuses on the formation and evolution of galaxies. My experience includes deep imaging and spectroscopic surveys, both from space (HST) and the ground, mostly at UV/Optical/Near-IR wavelengths. My observations aim to identify galaxies at the time of their formation, explore the dispersion of their their properties and follow their evolution to the present cosmic times with the goal of informing cosmological theories. Currently, I am trying to understand the physics behind the evolution of the star formation activity in galaxies, from its onset to the quenching, and why galaxies appear to transform their structures, from disks to spheroids, as they evolve.
Teaching Statement:
In a nutshell, my philosophy is: develop curiosity, stimulate imagination, and encourage others to spend 30 minutes a day to challenge common wisdom and think at the opposite of their colleagues. Teach them the tools and the background, ignite their curiosity and guide them until they teach themselves.
