Peter is a staff scientist at Princeton University. His research interests focus on data analysis & weak lensing and he is the co-chair of the cluster-lensing working group.
Peter studies the distribution of matter in the universe by utilizing the gravitational lensing effect. His specialties are high-precision image analysis and statistical inference for large astronomical surveys, for which he develop algorithms that accurately capture the properties of millions to billions of stars and galaxies despite the flaws and limitations of real-world instruments.
We asked Peter a few more questions — here’s what he had to say:
What is your favorite part about being a scientist?
The puzzles: questions we don’t have answers to, problems we don’t have solutions for
When did you know you wanted to be a scientist?
Somewhen around age six or seven
What motivates / inspires you?
To approach the data we collect from the universe with the same kind of analytical thinking as the inner workings of that universe.
Any advice for aspiring scientists?
Stay curious!