Astronomy PhD Admissions Help

I recently ran an information session at Tufts on PhD programs in astronomy. Specifically, we covered the pros and cons of doing a PhD, the benefits and challenges it can provide, and the potential path to and after the PhD. You can find slides from the talk HERE.

Hubble Fellowship Application Database

I am a firm believer in a transparent astronomy community. This means open and equal access to observations, data, codes and other resources. One important resources in the job market is past applications. This is particularly important for the Hubble fellowship, where the success rate is so low that the applicant must have a firm idea of what makes the "perfect" application. However, many people will be at universities where they cannot easily access local application materials. I applied for the Hubble four times, and hence was rejected three times. I have attached here two versions of my proposal: my first and my last. My first was submitted for the late 2016 call, which was several months before I defended my PhD in March 2017. My last was my fourth and final attempt before I became too old *sigh*, and was submitted in the late 2019 call.

First (Unsuccessful) Application Download Link

Fourth (Successful) Application Download Link

I think that in both applications I proposed to do cool science (largely with circumbinary planets) but the biggest improvement was I showcased my work within the bigger picture, demonstrating a broader appeal.