Who Am I?

I am a physicist by training, a space-systems engineer by profession, and a lifelong student of science, mathematics, and technology. My career has taken me from laboratory research in infrared spectroscopy to the design, analysis, and architecture of complex space missions. Throughout, the common thread has been curiosity: understanding how things work and finding practical ways to solve difficult problems.

From Mathematics to Experimental Physics

I studied mathematics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where I developed the analytical foundation that continues to shape how I approach technical problems. I went on to earn a Ph.D. in Physics at the University of California, Berkeley, conducting graduate research in the laboratory of Nobel laureate Charles H. Townes.

My doctoral work centered on far-infrared spectroscopy, lasers, and sensitive detection systems. It combined theory with hands-on experimentation, including work associated with NASA research facilities and astronomical observations. That experience established a lasting interest in the relationship between physical measurements, instrumentation, and the scientific questions they can answer.

A Career in Space Science and Engineering

After graduate school, my work expanded into Earth observation, remote sensing, spacecraft instruments, and mission engineering. Over the years, I have contributed to efforts involving environmental and weather satellites, sensor calibration and validation, scientific software, modeling and simulation, and the planning and assessment of space missions.

My professional experience has included work with organizations and programs associated with TRW, NASA, The Aerospace Corporation, SAIC, and Boeing. Projects have ranged from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program and NPOESS-era environmental sensing to advanced Earth-science technology, sensor-web concepts, and national-security space systems. In many of these efforts, the central challenge has been connecting what a mission is intended to accomplish with what its instruments, spacecraft, ground systems, and operations can actually deliver.

In more recent work, I have focused on systems architecture, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), digital engineering, and the use of models to improve technical reasoning and communication across disciplines. I particularly enjoy problems at the intersection of physics, mission analysis, and systems engineering.

Teaching and Sharing What I Have Learned

Teaching is another important part of my professional life. As an instructor in systems engineering at UCLA, I teach subjects including system architecture and model-based systems engineering. I enjoy helping engineers move beyond individual tools and diagrams to understand the underlying principles: what a system must accomplish, how its architecture supports that purpose, and how evidence can be used to assess whether it will work.

I also value opportunities to encourage younger scientists and engineers, including volunteering as a science-fair judge. Explaining a difficult idea clearly, and seeing someone make the connection, is one of the most rewarding parts of technical work.

My teaching history and course materials are on Muon.com.

Beyond Work: Hobbies and Interests

Away from engineering, I enjoy building with LEGO. There is something satisfying about turning a collection of small pieces into a coherent design; perhaps unsurprisingly, it appeals to the same part of me that enjoys system architecture.

I am an enthusiastic reader, especially of science, mathematics, and the history of World War II. I enjoy learning both how the natural world works and how people make decisions under extraordinary circumstances. Music is another enduring pleasure and a welcome counterpoint to technical work.

Animals have always had a special place in my life, particularly dogs. I value their companionship, personalities, and the uncomplicated affection they bring into a home. They are an important reminder that a full life is about more than professional accomplishments. You can meet ours at The Love Dog.

Still Curious

If there is one theme connecting my education, career, teaching, and interests, it is that I have never stopped asking questions. I still enjoy learning new mathematics and physics, exploring emerging ideas in space science, and finding better ways to understand complicated systems. Curiosity has been a constant companion, and I hope it always will be.