Dr. Constantina M. Fotopoulou Rathjen
Multi-disciplinary Researcher
Ph.D. in Computational Astrophysics
Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics, Germany
Welcome to my website!
I am Constantina - an Astrophysicist by education and a problem-solver at heart.
I grew up in Athens, Greece where I studied Physics at the
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA)
and obtained my MSc in Astrophysics at the same institution.
Fascinated by the physical processes and mechanisms that underlie galaxy formation and evolution combined with a genuine passion for coding,
I ventured to Germany, where I earned my PhD in Computational Astrophysics from the
Max Planck Institute of Astrophysics (MPA)
and the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).
My research focused on the study of the turbulent multi-phase interstellar medium (ISM) using high-resolution hydrodynamical simulations of dwarf galaxy mergers.
During my Ph.D., I honed my skills in scientific programming, extensive data analysis and the development and implementation of models.
This period fortified my foundation in Python coding, positioning me as an adept and versatile researcher with intercultural and team-working skills.
Eagerly exploring new opportunities in the IT sector, my focus now shifts to utilizing my analytical thinking, acquired knowledge and experise
to real-world data challenges, harnessing my affinity for data analysis and innovative problem-solving to actively contribute to exciting advancements in the industry.
You can find my CV here:
“The nitrogen in our DNA, the calcium in our teeth, the iron in our blood,
the carbon in our apple pies were made in the interiors of collapsing stars.
We are made of starstuff.”
― Carl Sagan, Cosmos
My Expertise
As an Astrophysicist with a strong foundation in scientific programming, I bring a multifaceted skill set to the table. My expertise in Python scientific programming is not merely a tool but a means to unleash the potential of data. Whether it is automating routine tasks, performing statistical analysis on large datasets, or conducting scientific calculations of intricate physical processes, I excel in transforming raw information into valuable insights. My knack for high-resolution simulation data post-processing allows me to navigate complex datasets with ease, optimizing code for efficient performance. My analytical and synthetic cognitive skills enable me to efficiently solve complex problems in a timely manner and make data-driven decisions. I have successfully managed research projects involving high-resolution HD simulations of dwarf galaxies, showcasing my ability to plan and execute complex tasks, while implementing innovative ideas. Proficient in Python for scientific data post-processing, statistical analysis, and model implementation, I leverage specialized libraries like NumPy, SciPy, and Astropy, along with visualization tools such as Matplotlib, to extract reliable results. My proficiency extends beyond the realm of data analysis and problem-solving. Through my proven track record of academic writing in English, including publishing in peer-reviewed journals, collaborating with international teams, and delivering presentations at conferences and invited talks at universities and institutions worldwide, I have honed my skills in effective communication, global collaboration, and team-oriented work. Having volunteered in education, public outreach, and promoting inclusivity in STEM since my student days, I am eager to carry this commitment into the IT industry, engaging and making a positive impact on diverse audiences.
My Skills in a Nutshell
My Research in Extragalactic Astrophysics
My research in Extragalactic Astrophysics spans both the observational and the theoretical domains in the study of the interstellar medium (ISM). During my master’s studies, I gained observational insight into the multi-phase ISM by processing CO ALMA observations of the nearby galaxy 4C12.50, where I studied the properties of the cold molecular gas and the molecular outflow in the system. During my Ph.D., my interest shifted to the theoretical study of the ISM. Using a high-resolution hydrodynamical simulation of a gas-rich dwarf galaxy merger, I discovered an extended starburst in the system (you can find more information about the simulation here). I studied the impact of the starburst in the morphology and the evolution of the system and the effects of the generated outflows in the different phases of the ISM. Furthermore, my research focused on the cold star forming gas of the system, that is structured in compact clumps and filaments. Employing an algorithmic approach, I identified and analyzed these cold star-forming clouds, assessing their kinematic and structural properties, while comparing them with observations. Through my work, I managed to trace the life-cycle of the cold clouds -which are the sites of star formation in a galaxy- as well as to create a realistic model for the multi-phase ISM using very high resolution galaxy simulations with feedback from individual stars and star clusters.