Dr. Steven Finkelstein

Professor

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Biography

Steven Finkelstein is a Professor in the Department of Astronomy at the University of Texas at Austin, where he holds the Isabel McCutcheon Harte Centennial Chair. He graduated with a B.S. from the University of Washington in 2003 and earned his Ph.D. from Arizona State University in 2008. Following his doctorate, he was a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Texas A&M University from 2008 to 2011. Since joining the faculty at the University of Texas at Austin in 2012, he progressed from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor in 2017. Finkelstein's research focuses on the study of galaxies formed during the cosmic dark ages, investigating questions related to galaxy formation and evolution, the properties of the earliest galaxies, and their relation to the intergalactic medium. He employs state-of-the-art observational techniques and collaborates with leading astrophysicists worldwide. His research group is integral to significant projects such as the JWST CEERS project, contributing to our understanding of early universe phenomena. Finkelstein teaches courses including AST301, AST358, and AST386, fostering a deeper understanding of astronomy among students.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor

— Present

University of Texas at Austin • Austin, TX

Began tenure-track faculty position, focusing on research in galaxy formation and evolution.

Associate Professor

— Present

University of Texas at Austin • Austin, TX

Promoted to associate professor, continuing to expand research and teaching in astronomy.

Awards

#

Hubble Prize Postdoctoral Fellowship

#

Teaching Excellence Award

#

Teaching Excellence Award

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Centennial Teaching Fellowship

Courses

AST301 - Introduction to Astronomy AST358 - Galaxies in the Universe AST386 - Galaxies at High Redshift

Requirements for University of Texas at Austin

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
GRE General
TOEFL
Total
Required:79
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • CV/Resume
Specialization Notes

General requirements for the Graduate School at UT Austin apply to all programs unless otherwise specified.