About
Hello *ೃ༄ My name is Alexandra (or Alexa) and I am a PhD student in the Department of Climate and Space Sciences and Engineering (a.k.a. CLaSP) at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. My research focuses on utilizing in-situ spacecraft observations along with computational modeling to better understand the diverse plasma environments harbored by the planets of our solar system. I am interested in comparative analysis of magnetospheric systems, especially those of the outer planets, and the insights such analysis can yield on the fundamental processes that facilitate molecular mass transport.
Currently, I am working with Dr. Mike Liemohn on analyzing data from NASA’s Juno and Cassini missions; analysis thus far has encompassed surveying plasma measurements for signatures of rapid-transport events referred to as “interchange injections”. Insights on the temperature, density, and composition of the plasma during these events will later help in adapting the Hot Electron Ion Drift Integrator (HEIDI) model to the gas-giant planets, Jupiter and Saturn. Simulations produced by HEIDI will provide a new tool in the ongoing investigation of these distinct inner-magnetospheric plasma flows that facilitate global circulation of moon-origin plasma.
A detailed overview of my research and education/outreach endeavors can be found here.
When not typing away at code, I enjoy hiking, reading, listening to nature sounds / new music, and, when possible, attempting to capture the texture of such experiences in paint and photography.
A selection of my photography can be found here. Please contact me for a selection of painted works.
Updated: July 2025
Contact: roosnovo@umich.edu
ALEXANDRA ROOSNOVO 