Astronomy · Python · Data
Alison Thomas
Astronomy and Planetary Science graduate with project experience using Python and SQL for time-series analysis and machine learning. My other experience includes teaching, daily recordkeeping, and following facility safety procedures.
Selected projects
Spin Evidence Ledger
Python · Gravitational waves · Reproducibility- Audited the public parameter-estimation samples for GW241011 and GW241110 across three waveform analyses.
- Recomputed 48 mass and spin-derived quantities sample by sample with zero comparisons outside preset tolerances, then completed 42 pairwise posterior comparisons.
- Kept the prior-information stage explicitly blocked when the matching released prior samples were unavailable rather than substituting an assumed distribution.
TOI-791 Transit Analysis
Python · TESS · Time series- Downloaded and processed 40 official two-minute TESS light curves, then ran broad and targeted period searches in Python.
- Recovered an approximately 139.31-day signal for TOI-791 b and checked a publication-informed 232.01-day period for TOI-791 c as a consistency check.
- Project files include the executed notebook, Python source, downloaded-product manifest, saved results, and diagnostic figure.
SDSS Celestial Classifier
Python · SQL · Machine learning- Queried a balanced 15,000-object SDSS DR18 sample and built a star, galaxy, and quasar classifier using four dereddened optical colors.
- Left 3,000 objects out of model development, used five-fold cross-validation to select the model, and scored 0.927 macro F1 on the held-out sample.
Experience
Co-Founder
Confidential Venture
Help with product and market research for an early-stage infrastructure venture. Product details are private.
Infant Assistant Teacher
Skies the Limit Academy · Brookhaven National Laboratory environment
- Maintained precise daily health and development records for up to eight children and followed strict facility-access, sanitation, and federal safety procedures.
Teacher’s Assistant
New Beginnings of Hauppauge
- Supported early science, math, and social-skills lessons; tracked progress and provided parents with daily updates.
Teacher’s Assistant
B.E.S.T. Learning Center
- Supervised an early-learning classroom, resolved peer conflicts, prepared activities, and maintained organized, safe transitions.