Michelle Kirchoff

Michelle Kirchoff has a diverse and extensive work experience in the field of planetary science. Michelle began their career as an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the University of Missouri - St. Louis, where they collected and analyzed observations of a binary star to gain insights into their evolution. Michelle also served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, where they assisted in lecture sessions and led lab sections for an Astronomy course.

Michelle later joined Washington University in St. Louis as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, where they graded assignments and exams, and led lab sections for geology and Earth evolution courses. Michelle also conducted a research project under the guidance of their advisor, which contributed to their Ph.D. thesis.

After their graduate studies, Michelle transitioned to the Lunar and Planetary Institute as a Postdoctoral Research Scientist. Here, they conducted research projects focusing on understanding the geologic history of Saturn's moon Enceladus and the small body populations in the Saturn system.

Currently, Michelle is working at the Southwest Research Institute, where they have held various roles including Research Scientist, Senior Research Scientist, Lead Research Scientist, and Principal Research Scientist. In their roles, they have been involved in planetary science research, education, and public outreach. Michelle has led research projects, secured research funding through NASA grant proposals, and contributed to a better understanding of the geologic and bombardment histories of Saturn's moons.

Overall, Michelle Kirchoff's work experience highlights their expertise and contributions in planetary science research, teaching, and public engagement.

Michelle Kirchoff earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Physics with an emphasis in Astrophysics from the University of Missouri-Saint Louis in 2001. Michelle went on to complete their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Earth and Planetary Science at Washington University in St. Louis in 2006.