![Daniel Piacitelli](/sites/default/files/styles/headshot/public/content-upload/staff/headshots/Daniel%20Piacitelli.jpg?itok=E9ubGiaB)
After growing up in Washington State and completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Washington-Seattle, Daniel (he/him) moved to New Jersey to attend Rutgers. He is currently a second year Ph.D. student specializing in computational astrophysics. Daniel utilizes large simulated volumes of the universe to investigate the gas clouds within the intricate ecosystems of dwarf galaxies. Through this exploration, he aims to uncover the fundamental processes driving the evolution and lifecycle of these tiny galaxies. When he's not immersed in the wonders of computer-generated gas clouds, he is a passionate science-fiction/fantasy reader, low-skill baker, and (fair-weather dependent) outdoorsman. Finally, having navigated the challenges and anxieties inherent to pursuing a STEM degree, engaging in undergraduate research, and traversing the confusing landscape of graduate school applications, Daniel understands the substantial impact his mentors' support had on his achievements. Now, he is excited to provide his support to those in the early stages of their STEM journey.