Sarah M. Hörst

Hörst Group Members

Postdocs and Research Scientists

Dr. Michael Radke (Postdoctoral Associate (2023-Present))

Michael is a postdoc with a background in Geology and Chemistry. He is interested in the chemistry of planetary atmospheres--particularly those of Venus and Titan. He is also interested in the complex chemical interactions between planetary surfaces and atmospheres and how these atmospheres evolve over geologic timescales. He enjoys drinking coffee, looking at rocks, skiing, and contemplating his existence in the Solar System. He also did his PhD in our research group!

Graduate Students

BP Blakley (2nd Year)

BP is a second year graduate student with a background in fine arts and geology. They conduct laboratory investigations and field studies in support of planetary missions. They are interested in the chemistry that occurs at planetary interfaces, such as between surfaces and atmospheres, especially as relevant to astrobiology. They also enjoy birding, art-making, and basketball.

Cara Pesciotta (4th Year)

Cara is a fourth year graduate student with a background in physics and math. She is interested in using laboratory experiments to understand planetary atmospheres, particularly in relation to astrobiology. She also enjoys playing music, the beach, and macro photography.

Victoria Da Poian (4th Year)

Victoria is a fourth year graduate student with a masters in aerospace engineering and space systems, and a background in data science. She is interested in developing computer science tools (such as data science and machine learning) for planetary missions. She is mainly focusing on developing algorithms to support the analysis of mass spectrometry data for flight missions. She enjoys running, learning new languages by watching TV show, and baking.

Undergraduate Students

Stella Hong

Stella is interested in the organic chemistry of Titan’s atmosphere and surface and how that contributes to our understanding of how life arose on Earth. BS in Molecular and Cellular Biology 2025.