Paul Kalas

Paul Kalas is an astrophysicist and professor at the University of California, Berkeley. He is known for his work in the field of planetary science, particularly in the study of protoplanetary disks, exoplanets, and the debris disks around stars.

Paul Kalas received his PhD in physics from the University of Cambridge in 2000. He then went on to work as a postdoctoral fellow at the Institute of Astronomy in Cambridge, and later as a research scientist at the SETI Institute and NASA Ames Research Center.

Paul Kalas has made several notable achievements in his career. One of his most significant contributions is the discovery and imaging of the first ever directly observed exoplanet, Fomalhaut b. He also played a key role in imaging the debris disk system around the star HR 8799, which was another groundbreaking discovery.

Paul Kalas focuses his research on the study of protoplanetary disks, which are the birthplaces of planets, as well as the debris disks that remain after planets have formed. He also investigates the dynamics and composition of exoplanets, using various techniques including high-resolution imaging.

Paul Kalas is currently a professor of astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley. He continues to conduct research in the field of planetary science, mentor students, and engage in academic collaborations.