2018: Samar Safi-Harb

Neutron Stars and Supernovae: The most exotic astrophysical objects that keep surprising us.

Dr. Samar Safi-Harb
Professor, Canada Research Chair
Department of Physics and Astronomy,
University of Manitoba

Neutron Stars are born in Supernovae: some of the most energetic explosions that mark the death of a massive star and make the heavy elements essential for life, while also dispersing ultra-high-energy particles in the Universe. This past year, we entered a new era of multi-messenger astronomy thanks to the discovery of gravitational waves and light (across the electromagnetic spectrum) from a neutron star-neutron star merger. I will highlight some of the most fascinating properties and phenomena associated with these objects, including the surprises they keep bringing us since their discovery 50 years ago. I will focus on their diversity, evolution and interaction with their hosting supernova remnants, and conclude with what the future holds for this field.

About the Speaker

Samar Safi-Harb received her undergraduate degree in Physics at the American University of Beirut. She decided to pursue her passion and higher education in Physics, receiving a fellowship to pursue her graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin - Madison where she completed her MS and PhD degrees in Physics and Astrophysics. She subsequently held a National Research Council Fellowship at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland, before moving to the University of Manitoba to lead the development and establishment of a new astrophysics program. As a Canada Research Chair, Dr. Safi-Harb provides a role model for women who wish to pursue their career in Science, and especially those who strive to follow their passion and overcome obstacles to fulfill their dreams.

About the Lecture Series

The Frances E. Walker Fund for Women in Physics was established by Dr. Mary Anne Frye to acknowledge her mother, Frances E. Walker and to support programs that encourage and increase the participation of women in the study of physics. The Walker Lecture Series brings prominent women physicists and astrophysicists to campus to highlight their accomplishments and incorporates a mentoring segment for students. The fund also supports a fellowship that is designed to give promising female U.S. citizens the opportunity to engage in research projects under the guidance of a GW Physics Department faculty member. Dr. Frye received a B.A. in Physics in 1970 and earned a Ph.D. in Physiology in 1975 from the GW Columbian College of Arts and Sciences. Frances E. Walker graduated from GW with a B.A. in 1927 and a M.A in Latin in 1931.