Robert Goodrich
About Robert Goodrich
Robert Goodrich is an Observatory Scientist at GMTO in Pasadena, CA, where he has worked since 2015. He has extensive experience in astronomy, having previously held positions at W. M. Keck Observatory and various academic institutions.
Work at Giant Magellan Telescope
Robert Goodrich has served as an Observatory Scientist at the Giant Magellan Telescope Organization (GMTO) since 2015. In this role, he is responsible for developing the operational staffing plan and the transition plan from project to operations. He collaborates with the Science Advisory Committee to achieve science operations goals, ensuring that the telescope's operational framework aligns with its scientific objectives.
Education and Expertise
Robert Goodrich holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Astronomy and Astrophysics from the University of California, Santa Cruz, where he studied from 1981 to 1988. He also earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Astronomy from Caltech between 1977 and 1981, followed by a Master of Science (M.S.) in Astronomy and Astrophysics from UC Santa Cruz. His extensive education provides a strong foundation for his work in observational astronomy.
Background
Before joining GMTO, Robert Goodrich accumulated significant experience in various roles within the field of astronomy. He worked at the W. M. Keck Observatory for 12 years as the Observing Support Manager and previously as a Support Astronomer. His earlier positions include being a McDonald Fellow at The University of Texas at Austin and a Palomar Fellow at Caltech. He also served as a Postdoctoral Researcher at UC Santa Cruz and the Space Telescope Science Institute.
Professional Experience
Robert Goodrich's professional experience spans over three decades in the field of astronomy. His tenure at the W. M. Keck Observatory included roles as both Observing Support Manager and Support Astronomer. He has also held postdoctoral positions at notable institutions such as the Space Telescope Science Institute and UC Santa Cruz. His diverse roles have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of operational concepts and system behaviors relevant to large-scale astronomical projects.