Dr. Samantha Gilbert-Janizek

Dual-Title PhD in Astronomy & Astrobiology from the University of Washington

Studying how we will characterize the atmospheres of exo-Earths to search for life

The effect of spectral resolution on biosignature detection via reflected light observations of the Earth through time

Accepted at The Astrophysical Journal (2026)

A whole-planet model of the Earth without life for terrestrial exoplanet studies

In review at The Planetary Science Journal (2026)

Retrieved Atmospheres and Inferred Surface Properties for Terrestrial Exoplanets Using Transmission and Reflected Light Spectroscopy

Published in The Planetary Science Journal (2024)

Raising eSTEAM: Grad Student-Led Prison Outreach Initiative

I founded and lead a group of UW graduate students providing mentorship, tutoring, and STEM enrichment opportunities to incarcerated youth in the Seattle area.

Covered by Popular Science and Astrobites