Biography:
Andrea Mia Ghez was born on June 16, 1965, in New York City. She is the daughter of Susanne and Gilbert Ghez. Her father, of Jewish heritage, was born in Rome, Italy, to a family originally from Tunisia and Frankfurt, Germany. Her mother was from an Irish Catholic family from North Attleborough, Massachusetts. When Ghez was a child, her family relocated from New York to Chicago, where she attended the University of Chicago Lab School.
Inspired by the Apollo program Moon landings, Ghez developed a strong desire to become the first female astronaut. Her mother supported her goal by purchasing a telescope, which further fueled her passion for the mysteries of the universe. Among her many influential role models, her high school chemistry teacher stood out as the most influential female figure in her life.
Ghez began her college journey by majoring in mathematics but later switched to physics. In 1987, she received a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). During her time at MIT, she was a member of the fraternity of St. Anthony Hall. Ghez continued her academic pursuit at the California Institute of Technology, where she earned her Ph.D. in 1992 under the guidance of Gerry Neugebauer.
Throughout her career, Ghez has made significant contributions to the field of astrophysics. Her research focuses on the center of the Milky Way galaxy, particularly on the supermassive black hole known as Sagittarius A*. She utilizes advanced imaging techniques, such as the adaptive optics system at the Keck telescopes, to study star-forming regions and probe the dynamics of the galactic center. Ghez’s innovative work has provided a deeper understanding of the structure and behavior of black holes.
In recognition of her groundbreaking discoveries and contributions to the field, Ghez has received numerous accolades. In 2004, she was elected to the prestigious National Academy of Sciences. Eight years later, in 2012, she was elected to the American Philosophical Society. In 2019, Ghez’s exceptional achievements led her to be elected as a Fellow of the American Physical Society (APS).
Andrea M. Ghez’s work has not only advanced our understanding of the universe but has also inspired countless individuals, especially young women, to pursue careers in STEM fields. Her dedication to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and her unwavering passion for exploration have solidified her place as a pioneering figure in astrophysics.