Ph.D. Student Spotlight: Extragalactic Astronomer Gianni Sims Featured in ‘Nature’
Tuesday, Aug 12, 2025
Gianni Sims, a master’s en passant and Ph.D. student in the Department of Physics at the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, has always been interested in supermassive black holes (SMBHs). As some of the most mysterious objects in the observable universe, Sims has been intrigued by them and their relationship to galaxy evolution. More specifically, she aims to understand how (SMBHs) first formed and why they exist in such a wide range of galaxy environments.
“There is still so much we do not understand about how they form, evolve and influence their surroundings,” noted Sims. “These questions fueled my curiosity to learn more about them.”
Sims’s research interests focus on high-energy astrophysics, particularly understanding the formation of SMBHs. She studies active galactic nuclei in large samples of galaxies using multiwavelength survey data and statistical modeling to better understand SMBH growth across cosmic time. Her outstanding work was recognized by Nature, as part of Black Space Week 2025.
“I feel very grateful to be selected as one of the featured astronomers,” expressed Sims. “It feels encouraging to have my research recognized, and it motivates me to keep pushing forward in this field.”
Outside of her studies, Sims serves as a student council member for the National Society of Black Physicists. In her role, she helps support efforts that empower Black students in physics across the country.
Following her graduation, Sims plans to pursue a postdoctoral position at a national lab, research institute or university, with the long-term goal of becoming a full-time research scientist at a research institute or national lab. She hopes to continue conducting research related to her current thesis or on projects that align with her interests in SMBHs and high-energy astrophysics.
“I hope my research can help uncover how supermassive black holes are first formed and evolved in the early universe, which remains one of the biggest open questions in astrophysics,” stated Sims.
Sims works with Schmidt College of Science Professor of Physics, Vicki Sarajedini, Ph.D.