Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Astronomical Sciences awarded Ana Glidden a $330,000 Astronomy and Astrophysics Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (CFDA 47.049 – Mathematical and Physical Sciences) effective September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2029, to conduct research at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts. The fellowship supports the development of advanced computational tools and methodologies for modeling M dwarf stars and characterizing rocky exoplanet atmospheres. Key deliverables include a comprehensive semi-empirical grid of three-dimensional (3D) M dwarf stellar surface models incorporating magnetic features, machine learning optimization algorithms to balance information content with computational efficiency, and a deep-learning Bayesian retrieval framework capable of simultaneously constraining stellar surface inhomogeneities and planetary atmospheric properties. The project will produce open-source software tools designed to serve as the community baseline for interpreting terrestrial exoplanet observations from next-generation extremely large telescopes, particularly the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT).

In addition to research outputs, the fellowship includes a significant education and mentorship component. Dr. Glidden will develop and deliver interactive presentations on current astrophysical research to local middle and high school students and provide mentorship to undergraduate researchers at the institution regarding graduate school applications. No subawards are planned for this grant. These products and services directly support NSF's mission to advance fundamental scientific knowledge while strengthening the Nation's capacity for exoplanet habitability assessment and biosignature detection.