Dr. Zsuzsa Márka

Biography

Zsuzsa Márka is an Associate Research Scientist at the Columbia Astrophysics Laboratory, where she works on the LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory) project. In 2016, she announced the direct detection of gravitational waves, marking a significant milestone in the field of astrophysics. Márka played a crucial role in building the LIGO KAGRA timing distribution systems, which are essential subsystems for instrument control and gravitational wave data acquisition. Her research interests span various aspects of gravitational-wave multimessenger astrophysics, with a particular focus on joint high-energy neutrino and gravitational wave searches. Additionally, Márka is involved in the development of new technologies aimed at combating diseases transmitted by vectors, utilizing optical and acoustic technologies in murine models for neurodegenerative diseases. As a mother of four, she values the importance of educating young minds about the beauty and value of scientific endeavors, believing it to be vital for societal progress. She has given talks in urban schools and has organized events to spread scientific knowledge to the younger generation. Márka emphasizes the need to invest efforts in high-quality science education and to strengthen science curricula from an early age to help reduce recognized gender and racial disparities in scientific professions.

Research Interests