Candidate Statement: Kelsey Johnson

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Kelsey Johnson


Nominated Office: Councilor

Affiliation: University of Virginia

Position/title: Associate Professor

PhD institution: University of Colorado (2001)

Areas of scientific interest: Johnson's research is primarily aimed at understanding the interplay between star formation, galaxy interactions, and galaxy evolution. Her current research program is heavily focused on using ALMA observations to determine the physical conditions associated with different modes of star formation and super star clusters in particular. She also has on-going projects that study the impact of the compact group environment on galaxy evolution, the role of dwarf-dwarf galaxy interactions over cosmic time, the presence of AGN in dwarf galaxies, the importance of feedback from Wolf-Rayet stars, and star formation in "normal" galaxies.

AAS positions & dates: 

  • AAS member (1997-present)
  • Invited guest to observe AAS Council Meeting (2005)
  • Beatrice M. Tinsley Prize Committee (2007-2009)
  • Interview for AAS "STATUS" publication (2010)
  • Table host for AAS Undergraduate Receptions (2010-2016)

Other relevant positions & experience:

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee (2016-present)
  • Board Member, Astronomical Society of the Pacific (2013-present)
  • Director, Dark Skies Bright Kids program (2009 present)

Selected National/International Committees: 

  • JWST Advisory Committee (2016-present)
  • Treasurer and Chair of Astronomical Society of the Pacific Finance Committee (2016-present)
  • Chair, HST Time Allocation Committee, Extragalactic Panel (2014)
  • ALMA International Science Advisory Committee (2008-2014)
  • ALMA North America Science Advisory Committee (2005-2014)
  • ALMA Sustainable Energy Working Group (2012-2014)
  • Chair, ALMA International Science Advisory Committee (2011-2012)
  • Vice Chair, ALMA International Science Advisory Committee (2010-2011)
  • ALMA International Science Advisory Committee (extended term 2008-2015)
  • NSF Committee of Visitors, AST Division (2005)

Selected Review Panels:

  • Co-Chair of Astronomical Society of the Pacific Awards Committee (2015-2016)
  • Chair, ALMA Time Allocation Committee, Extragalactic Panel (2015, 2016)
  • Chair, HST Time Allocation Committee, Extragalactic Panel (2014)
  • NOAO Time Allocation Committee (2010-2014)
  • NASA Postdoctoral Fellowship (2009, 2013)
  • NRAO/GBT Student Support Committee (2004-2012)
  • NSF CCAT Review (2011)
  • Hubble Space Telescope panel member (2005, 2010)
  • NSF AAG Panel (2002, 2009)
  • Chair, Spitzer Space Telescope panel (2009)
  • NRAO Green Bank Director Search Committee (2009)
  • NRAO VLA Director Search Committee (2007)
  • Spitzer Space Telescope panel member (2006)
  • NSF CAREER panel member (2005)

Candidate Statement: I am honored to be considered for the AAS council. I believe the importance of Astronomy as a "gateway" science has never been greater, and as professional astronomers we have an essential role in combating science illiteracy as well as advancing the forefront of knowledge. As a member of the AAS council I would have three main goals: 1) help our community navigate the ebb and flow of science funding and work toward sustaining our long-term health and stability, 2) work toward increased science literacy among both the public and policy makers, and 3) contribute to the role of the AAS in creating a diverse work force both within and outside of academia. If elected, I would be simultaneously serving on the AAS Council, the AAAC, and the ASP Board (which have complementary major areas of strength in research, policy, and education), and I would strive to leverage the connections between these groups. Thank you for considering my nomination.