Ricardo Demarco

My main research is based on the analysis and interpretation of imaging and spectroscopic data sets from ground and space based observatories to investigate structure formation and evolution. In particular, the analysis of spectroscopic data allows me to map out large-scale structures, study galaxy cluster dynamics and characterize the stellar content of galaxies out to z>1.

In combination with accurate photometry and high angular resolution data, it is possible to investigate the stellar mass assembly and star formation histories of galaxies and the effects of the environment on galaxy properties. As a member of the SpARCS and HCS collaborations, I am involved in the study of galaxy clusters at z>0.8 and the search for clusters at z>1.5 to investigate the transition of these structures from protoclusters at z>2 to massive clusters at z<1. I am also part of the VLT-CLASH team, a VLT Large Program to carry out a panoramic spectroscopic survey of massive clusters at z=0.2-0.6, drawn from the sample of the CLASH HST multi-treasury program.

In July 2009, I became a faculty member of the Department of Astronomy of the Universidad de Concepción (UdeC). Since then, I have been working to establish a research group at UdeC dedicated to the study of galaxy clusters and galaxy evolution.

Studies

• Bsc. in Physics, Catholic University of Chile, Chile, 1993-1999.
• Diploma in Advanced Studies -equivalent to a Master Degree- Paris University  Paris 7 Denis Diderot, France, 1999-2000.
• Ph.D. in Astrophysics , Paris University  Paris 7 Denis Diderot, France, 2000-2003

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