Dr. Christopher Martin

Professor

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Biography

Christopher Martin is a prominent physicist specializing in experimental astrophysics. He has been a faculty member at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) since 1993, where he has taken on various leadership roles including Director of the Caltech Optical Observatories. Martin's research focuses on galaxy evolution and the intergalactic medium (IGM), with a particular interest in understanding the gas flows in and around galaxies, known as the Circum-Galactic Medium (CGM). His work involves developing innovative instruments such as the Palomar Cosmic Web Imager and the Keck Cosmic Web Imager to observe faint emissions from the IGM and CGM. He is committed to unraveling the history of cosmic gas accretion in galaxies and the effects of black hole winds on the IGM. His expertise also extends to integrating observational data with numerical simulations to create predictive theories of baryonic structure formation in the universe.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Tenured professor specializing in experimental astrophysics.

Stone Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

A senior faculty position focusing on key research areas.

Director

— Present

Caltech Optical Observatories • Pasadena, CA

Oversees research and development in optical astronomy.

Executive Officer

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Provided leadership within the department.

Requirements for California Institute of Technology

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong background in mathematics and physical sciences
Application Checklist
  • Online Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Most Caltech graduate programs are PhD-only. GRE General and Subject tests vary by department; many have made them optional or no longer accept them.