About Me
Hi, I’m Gaurav Gawade – a passionate astrophysicist driven by big dreams and a love for human innovation. I believe we have the power to evolve into a Type I civilization by 2100, fully harnessing our planet’s potential. I envision a world by 2050 where human biology is completely in our control – free of diseases, with advanced genetic upgrades and peak mental acuity.
My journey into astrophysics didn’t begin with star-gazing but with the magic of words. Influential books in Marathi by Dr. Jayant Narlikar and inspiring sci-fi shows ignited my passion. Despite the challenges and difficult choices between stability and pursuing research, I remained committed. I’ve completed my master’s in astrophysics and now seek a PhD position with a supervisor who is as dedicated to research as I am.
I also have several innovative research proposals in the works. Feel free to contact me if you'd like to collaborate.
Academic Profile
GAURAV GAWADE
Goa, INDIA
Email: gaurav.gawade@xaviers.edu.in
Phone/Whatsapp/Telegram: +91-9356876198
ORCID: 0009-0002-2177-9941
LinkedIn: in/gaurav-gawade-82660a188
Github: TshapedAsh
Education
St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Mumbai
Master’s in Physics (Specialized in Astrophysics)
(June 2022 – April 2024, Mumbai, India)
University of Mumbai, India
Bachelor’s in Physics
(June 2019 – April 2022, Mumbai, India)
Relevant Coursework at Master's Level
- Stellar Structure and Evolution
- Physics of Radiation and Matter
- Atomic and Nuclear Physics
- Extragalactic Astrophysics
- General Relativity and Cosmology
- Statistical Mechanics
- Quantum Mechanics
Master’s Dissertation (Full Time)
Title: Investigating Dual AGN/SMBH: A Study of Dual AGN Mrk 739 in High Energy Astrophysics
(October 2023 – April 2024, Mumbai, India)
Advisor: Dr. Manojendu Choudhury, Assistant Professor, St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Mumbai
Conducted high-energy research on SMBH binaries and dual AGN; identified candidate systems via SDSS data and confirmed characteristics with X-ray observations. Developed and defended innovative research proposals.
Research Internship (Full Time)
Title: Searching for Transients in VLASS Data
(May 2024 – August 2024, Trivandrum, India)
Advisor: Dr. Resmi Lekshmi, Associate Professor, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram
Conducted extensive analysis of the VLASS, creating a preliminary catalogue of 156 transients. Performed multi-wavelength analyses and cross-referenced radio data from VLA’s FIRST and NED catalog to classify transient sources. Designed optimized methodologies for transient detection.
Research Achievements
Poster Presentation, Astronomical Society of India (ASI) Meeting 2025, NIT-Rourkela – Dual AGN/SMBH Through Multiwavelength Analysis (February 2025) Link
Short-Term Research Projects
- AGNJet Simulation and Synchrotron Emission Analysis (Sept 2023) – Analyzed synchrotron parameters using Python and agnpy.
- Neutron Star Analysis (TOV Equations) (August 2023) – Explored mass–radius relations via computational modeling.
- Stellar Lightcurve Simulation (June 2023) – Modeled luminosity variations using both theoretical and empirical approaches.
- RFI Identification (GMRT) (Jan 2023) – Processed voltage time series data with interferometric techniques.
- Identical Particle Interaction using Perturbation Theory (Dec 2022) – Applied perturbation theory to model fermion interactions.
- Galaxy Classification using Machine Learning (Dec 2022) – Employed Decision Tree and Random Forest classifiers on galaxy morphology data.
Workshops, Schools and Conferences
- Summer School – Fusion Energy and Plasma Physics, PPPL, Princeton (June 1–15, 2023) Certificate Link
- Winter School – Gravitational Waves Physics and Technology, LIGO-India with IUCAA and Goa-University (Nov–Dec 2023) Certificate Link
- Workshop in Expanding Universe, Vera C. Rubin Observatory, Chile (March 2023) Certificate Link
- 9th National Conference on Computer Vision, Pattern Recognition, Image Processing, and Graphics (NCVPRIPG 2024), IIST, Thiruvananthapuram (July 18–20, 2024) Certificate Link
- SKAin India (VIII): Enhancing Scientific and Technological Participation in SKA, ASI, NIT-Rourkela (Feb 2025) Workshop Details
Skills
Programming: Python, Java, C++, JavaScript, HTML & CSS, Kotlin
Astronomy Software: HEASoft, CIAO, SAS, CASA, SAOImage DS9, Stellarium, TOPCAT, QGIS
Tools & OS: LaTeX, Android Studio, MS Office, Linux (Ubuntu, Kali), macOS
Languages: English (Fluent), Marathi (Native), Hindi, Konkani, Spanish (Intermediate)
Soft Skills: Public Speaking, Stargazing, Science Communication, STEAM Education
Certifications
- Artificial Intelligence Developer – Issued by Kodacy (3-month course) Certificate Link
- Certificate in Research Methodology – Issued by IIT-Madras, NPTEL (8-week course) Certificate Link
Co-Curricular and Extra-Curricular Activities
- Poster Presentation at PROBE-2024 (Interdisciplinary Science Exhibition Program).
- Organized stargazing events at college and commercial organizations (2022–2024).
- Presented a working model of a Fingerprint Sensor with Projector at JIGYASA-2022; secured second place.
- Published layman-oriented science articles (2020–2023).
- Won First Prize at Inter-University Astronomy Quiz Competition (2021) in Sawantwadi, India.
- Participated in multidisciplinary public seminars (2020–2024).
- Presented a lightbulb model using LDR sensors and Arduino at AVISHKAR-2019 (Inter-University Science Exhibition).
Outside science, I enjoy connecting with friends and hanging out with Megatron, my cat. I’m all about sparking curiosity and inspiring others to see the power of science for themselves. Together, we can move forward.
Apart from that, I have a geek for entertainment industry. I love reading books, novels, and watch TV shows, movies, anime and listen to music. I have a few recommendatios.
Show Recommendations
- Doctor Who A legendary time-travel series blending philosophy, science fiction, and heartfelt moments.
- Nolan's Batman Trilogy A gritty exploration of justice, fear, and the complexities of heroism.
- The Three-Body Problem A mind-expanding tale where hard science meets first contact with alien life.
- Dark A twisty German sci-fi show that explores interwoven timelines and raw emotion.
- Stranger Things A nostalgic blend of supernatural mysteries and childhood spirit.
- Inception A layered dive into dreams that makes you wonder about reality.
- Oppenheimer A deep, thought-provoking look at science history and innovation.
- Kung Fu Panda An animated adventure that delivers humor, heart, and surprising wisdom.
- Strong Girl Do Bong Soon Fun and quirky with a mix of superpowers and light-hearted chaos.
- Attack on Titan A gripping series where survival, humanity, and epic battles collide.
- Monster A psychological thriller that delves into the darker side of human nature.
- Parasyte: The Maxim A mind-bending series that merges body horror with deep philosophical questions. Game of Thrones A raw saga of power, loyalty, and the human experience in a fantastical realm.
Book Recommendations
- Cosmos A beautifully written journey that unveils the wonders of the universe.
- The Order of Time A poetic exploration of time that makes you rethink reality.
- Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman! A witty and insightful look at science from one of its most colorful figures.
- The Elegant Universe A fascinating dive into string theory that is both deep and accessible.
- Brief Answers to the Big Questions Hawking explains our universe’s mysteries with clarity and inspiration.
- Astrophysics for People in a Hurry A quick and engaging read that makes complex ideas very relatable.
- Homo Deus A thought-provoking look at the future possibilities for humanity.
- Flow A deep exploration into creativity and the psychology of optimal experiences.
- Sapiens A compelling narrative that reshapes our understanding of human history.
- The Power of Now A spiritual guide to living in the present and embracing inner peace.
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck An honest, refreshing take on prioritizing what truly matters in life.
- The Power of Habit An insightful exploration into how habits form and how we can change them.
Fun Music Playlist: check it out on Spotify
I also love to write about science, fiction, and everything in between.