Vanessa López-Barquero

Astrophysicist

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Department of Astronomy | University of Maryland, College Park. USA

Biography

I'm a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Astronomy at the University of Maryland, College Park, specializing in theoretical astrophysics. My work focuses on unraveling the physics behind some of the universe's most energetic and extreme processes, with particular emphasis on cosmic rays, plasmas, and black holes. Through my research, I aim to advance our understanding of fundamental phenomena in astrophysics and contribute to the broader scientific community.

I earned my bachelor's degree in physics from the University of Costa Rica, where I explored research in nanotechnology, general relativity, and black hole astrophysics. After that, I moved to the United States to pursue my Master's and Ph.D. in the Department of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. During my Ph.D., I specialized in Particle Astrophysics with a minor in Plasma Astrophysics and conducted research at the Wisconsin IceCube Particle Astrophysics Center, collaborating with professors Francis Halzen and Paolo Desiati.

In 2021, I moved to the University of Cambridge, UK, for a postdoctoral position with Prof. Chris Reynolds in the X-ray research group at the Institute of Astronomy. At the same time, I was a postdoctoral researcher at St Edmund's College, University of Cambridge. Since joining the University of Maryland a year ago, I have continued my collaboration with Prof. Chris Reynolds. My research here explores deeper into the theoretical aspects of cosmic rays and black holes. I am mainly focused on understanding the underlying processes that drive the universe's most extreme and energetic phenomena.

Beyond my research, I'm deeply passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in science. I've led numerous initiatives to increase the participation of underrepresented groups and served as the scientific director of a Spanish-language radio program dedicated to scientific outreach for the Latinx community. Throughout my career, I've been committed to creating opportunities that foster equity in science.

Research

Chaotic Behavior of Cosmic Rays

I investigate how chaos in complex magnetic environments influences the transport and behavior of energetic particles, revealing key connections between dynamical systems and particle propagation.

Black Hole Coronae

My research explores the extreme physics of black hole coronae, using advanced models of non-equilibrium dynamics to uncover the origins of variability, jets, turbulence, and high-energy phenomena near compact objects.

Talk on this topic.

Neutrino Astrophysics

By connecting high-energy cosmic rays, X-rays, and neutrinos, I aim to identify the astrophysical processes powering some of the universe’s most energetic and elusive messengers.

Cosmic Ray Anisotropy

I examine how the structure and dynamics of turbulent and heliospheric magnetic fields influence the spatial distribution of cosmic rays, providing insights into the interplay between cosmic plasmas and particle propagation.

Heliosphere

I study how large-scale magnetic structures, like the heliosphere, shape the interaction between energetic particles and their surrounding environment, highlighting their influence on particle distribution and transport.

X-ray Binary Variability

My work focuses on the dynamic and non-equilibrium processes in X-ray binary systems, linking rapid variability to the interactions between high-energy plasmas and extreme gravitational environments.

Outreach

My efforts to make science more accessible and welcoming have focused on removing barriers that disproportionately impact gender minorities and historically underrepresented groups, especially members of the Latino community. As a Latina woman in science, I know firsthand the challenges that members of my community face, and I will do everything I can to create a better environment where our field becomes more inclusive for everyone in the future. I strongly believe that science has a unique universality; everyone should be a part of it. Making this happen has become a critical aspect of my job as a scientist.

Sharing knowledge and engaging with diverse audiences are vital components of my outreach work. Over the years, I have delivered public talks and educational presentations in English and Spanish, aiming to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging to all. These talks have allowed me to connect with various communities, from aspiring young scientists to general audiences eager to learn about topics such as women in science and the fascinating world of cosmic rays. Below, you can find links to some of these talks, which reflect my commitment to promoting science in an inclusive and approachable manner.