Ph.D. in Astrophysics | Expert Tutor in Physics, Algebra, and Calculus

Amy R.

I am an astrophysicist with a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of California, Irvine, with expertise in physics education and scientific data analysis. I also hold an M.S. in Physics from UCI, dual B.S. degrees in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (Magna Cum Laude), and an A.A. in Liberal Arts from Bard College at Simon’s Rock (Graduated with Distinction). My research focuses on galaxy evolution, and I regularly use Python (NumPy, pandas, matplotlib, Jupyter, scipy, etc.) to analyze data with Bayesian statistics, create visualizations, and solve complex problems. I have received awards for research and teaching from UCI, five academic scholarships from UMass Amherst, and Departmental Honors in Astronomy for my senior thesis.

With over eight years of teaching and tutoring experience, I have worked with students from high school through university in physics, astronomy, and mathematics. At UCI, I served as the Instructor of “Introduction to Astronomy” and “Introduction to Cosmology” for five terms, designing curriculum, delivering lectures, and guiding a diverse student body. I have also served as a teaching assistant for thirteen courses and tutored one-on-one in algebra, calculus, mechanics, electromagnetism, modern physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, astronomy, and scientific computing.

My teaching philosophy centers on building deep conceptual understanding while giving students practical problem-solving strategies they can apply independently. I tailor my approach to each student’s background, learning style, and goals, and believe science and mathematics are languages anyone can learn with the right support. I am known for my patience, clarity, and ability to make complex topics approachable. Whether you are preparing for an exam, building a foundation for future coursework, or aiming to boost your confidence, I will help you master the material and enjoy the process.