Dr. Devika Kotachery

Biography

Associate Professor Kamath’s research focuses on late-stage stellar evolution of low- to intermediate-mass stars, transforming the field by accurately quantifying element production that informs next-generation stellar models and supports future extragalactic studies, particularly with the 24-metre Giant Magellan Telescope, a key partner in Australia. Additionally, her research unravels novel planetary formation environments around dying stars, reshaping our understanding of planet formation and guiding future exoplanet observational studies using facilities like VLTI/GRAVITY+ and ELT/METIS. She is instrumental in advancing Australia’s engagement with the European Southern Observatory (ESO), having begun the government’s strategic partnership in 2017. Currently, she serves as an expert member of the ESO Time Allocation Committee, allocating competitive telescope time to the international community and previously represented Australia on the ESO Users Committee from 2022 to 2023. She has held expert roles on the Hubble Space Telescope and Anglo-Australian Telescope's TACs. Importantly, she was elected Chair of the Astronomical Society of Australia’s Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Astronomy (IDEA) Chapter in 2022, providing national leadership by embedding equity, diversity, and inclusivity in astronomy. At Macquarie University, she is the Director of Engagement for the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, leading outreach initiatives and driving employability programs.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards