Carl Ferkinhoff

View Dr. Carl Ferkinhoff’s website. 

I am an astronomer working to understand how galaxies earlier in the history of the universe have changed and evolved to produce the universe we see today. More specifically I study the gas, dust and stars in these early galaxies using emission lines that are visible at submillimeter wavelengths. 

I also have interests in astronomical instrumentation, building the instruments and hardware that let us make the observations of theses galaxies. Much of this work is done with collaborators at: 

• Cornell University
• Georgia Southern University
• Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Germany

Students are involved in both the observation and instrumentation projects depending on their interests.

Originally from near St. Cloud, MN I earned my undergraduate degree in Physics from Gustavus in St. Peter, MN. From there I moved to Baltimore, MD to study teaching and teach high school physics and chemistry through Teach For America. 

Learning that I loved teaching but missed doing research and advanced physics I choose to pursue a PhD in astronomy. After a couple of years in Germany for a postdoc I found myself back in the great state of Minnesota as an Assistant Professor at WSU!

In addition to my research interests, I am passionate about preparing excellent future science teachers, use of student centered methods of instruction, and providing equitable and just learning opportunities for all students. For fun I fish, read, sing and occasionally karaoke.

Education

• PHD: Astronomy | Cornell University (2014)
• MS: Astronomy | Cornell University (2011)
• BS: Physics | Gustavus Adolphus College (2001)