projects

what we are currently working on

Our group studies how uncertain nuclear reactions shape the observable fingerprints of stellar explosions. The projects below connect astrophysical environments, measurements with stable and radioactive isotopes in the lab, evaluations of thermonuclear reaction rates, and stellar abundance observations into one research program: identify the important nuclear physics, measure it, and test the consequences in nucleosynthesis models.

Each theme includes possible entry points for students, selected scientific output and the facilities or methods that make the work possible.

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Neutrino-driven outflows and the first r-process peak

Connecting α-induced reactions, Sr-Ag abundance patterns and metal-poor stars
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Core-collapse supernova γ-ray signatures

Radioactive isotopes, presolar grains, and the nuclear reactions that shape supernova observables
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Rare isotope experiments for stellar explosions

Recoil separators, storage rings, active targets, and radioactive beams for nuclear astrophysics
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Classical novae and presolar grains

Weak rp-process nucleosynthesis, nova endpoints, and isotopic fingerprints in stardust
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γ-process and the origin of p-nuclei

Experiments and models for the rarest of the heavy elements
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Reaction rates, networks, and uncertainty quantification

Turning nuclear measurements into predictive nucleosynthesis calculations


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

You are lucky that SMU has a few people working in nuclear astrophysics! In addition to Thanassis, you can also work with Prof. Christian on experimental studies.

Of course! There are many projects for students at all levels, from first year to senior undergraduates. You can also apply for Fellowships to partially support you (see below).

Not at all. A background in physics is helpful, but enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are most important. We provide training in the necessary experimental and computational techniques.

Depending on the project, you could learn experimental techniques at accelerator facilities, programming and data analysis (Python, C++), or computational modeling of astrophysical environments.

Yes. We have opportunities for both summer research (often with fellowships) and part-time projects during the school year.

Absolutely. Our group works with researchers at TRIUMF (Vancouver), RIKEN (Japan), FRIB (USA), and other international facilities. Students working in the group will have the opportunity to travel for experiments or meet our collaborators.

We are currently not hiring postdocs, but if you are interested in any of the Fellowships below, we would be happy to support you and your proposed project!

Send me an email with a brief introduction, your background, and any particular interests. Then we can then arrange a time to talk about potential projects.


Research fellowships for students and postdocs

Undergraduate students

Graduate students

Postdoctoral fellows