Dr. Jennifer Lotz Appointed Gemini Observatory Director

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) announces the appointment of Dr. Jennifer Lotz as the next Director of the Gemini Observatory. Dr. Lotz begins a five-year appointment as Gemini Director starting October 1, 2018. Previously, Dr. Lotz held the position of associate astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI).

“I’m excited by the science at the twin Gemini telescopes right now and by the opportunity to help Gemini Observatory make the most of its full potential,” said Dr. Lotz. “Gemini is truly poised to lead the way in high spatial resolution imaging, spectroscopy and rapid response astronomy.” Dr. Lotz also stated that the position attracted her because of Gemini’s reputation as a flexible and nimble observatory. “Gemini is able to uniquely study time-dependent phenomena ranging from small Solar System bodies to distant gravitational wave sources. Given the synergies of Gemini’s strengths with the other astronomical facilities coming on-line in the next few years, this is a particularly exciting time for the Observatory,” she added. See the full press release.