About Me

A picture of me and my wife

I am a graduate student in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Utah, where my research spans multiple, dynamic fields. I am deeply involved in projects with Professor Carsten Rott and Professor Shiqi Yu, focusing on renewable energy solutions and advanced neutrino search analysis. My academic journey began at Tribhuvan University in Nepal, where I completed my bachelor's degree in 2019. During my undergraduate studies, I delved into various research areas, including the environment surrounding Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) stars, a study on solar wind using data from the Parker Solar Probe (PSP), and an investigation into geomagnetic activity. These early experiences fueled my passion for data analysis and statistics. My current Ph.D. research includes the exploration of cosmic phenomena with the help of machine learning. I work with Professor Shiqi Yu and undergraduate Ryan on a project aimed at sorting new catalogs of Seyfert galaxies using data from various X-ray telescopes. We leverage the power of transformer machine learning models to efficiently classify these galaxies and perform a subsequent search for neutrino emissions. This research is crucial for identifying new astrophysical sources and expanding our understanding of high-energy neutrinos.

In collaboration with Professor Carsten Rott and Vedant Basu, my work also focuses on renewable energy solutions for the next-generation IceCube Neutrino Detector (IceCube-Gen2). This project aims to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to power the new detector with sustainable energy. Our research combines extensive simulation-based analysis with on-site field tests. This approach allows us to understand the power output from solar panels under diverse environmental conditions. In August 2024, we took a significant step by shipping four bifacial solar panels to the South Pole. This setup will provide invaluable data on their performance in a uniquely harsh and highly reflective environment. We expect the setup to be completed by January 2026. This initiative not only supports the IceCube-Gen2 project but also helps us understand the logistical and physical challenges of deploying technology in such an extreme climate.