Meet the RARE Lab!
Bidong Zhang
Principle Investigator
My research interests are to use meteorites and mission-returned samples to study the early evolution of the solar system. I am specifically interested in using and developing radiometric tools to understand the magmatic and impact histories of the Moon. I also use chemical analysis and numerical modeling of iron meteorites to unravel the core-formation processes of asteroids and dynamical evolution of the protoplanetary disk.
Kim Cone
Post-Doctoral Researcher
​I am a geologist and lunar scientist by academic training, but I started off in the world of theatre and the arts, and eventually obtained a degree in psychology before self-redirecting to mathematics and, finally, geology. My geology and lunar research has been fairly broad in terms of methodology (machine learning, textural analysis, experimental work, microscopy and spectroscopy, and others), which is just the way I like it (I’m sure I’m a songwriter-composer in at least one parallel universe). In general, I’m interested in questions about the origins of natural systems, whether it’s language or the Moon. In addition to linguistics, I enjoy learning about behavioral economics. Outside of work, I like gaming, playing guitar, and am currently learning to play the drums.
Tsai-Wei Chen
Post-Doctoral Researcher
I was born and raised in Taiwan and moved to the United States in 2019 to pursue my PhD. My research focuses on understanding the early evolution of Earth, the Moon, and other terrestrial planets. My work involves conducting high-precision isotopic analysis using ICP-MS and developing cutting-edge analytical techniques. Outside the lab, I enjoy traveling and playing with my cats, camping, and baking.
Amelia Bettati
PhD Student
I have an astrophysics background with research interests in planetary science, including the study of planets and moons throughout our solar system. My current interests include modeling meteorite landfall probability across the United States and investigating lunar geochronology and geochemistry. I am particularly drawn to questions that connect planetary materials, impacts, and surface evolution. Outside of hunting for falling stars, I enjoy a good book, cooking, painting, staying active, and spending time with my cats.
Aida Castelblanco
PhD Student
I'm a first-year graduate student from Los Angeles, CA, with a background in chemistry (and studio art!). I am particularly interested in analytical cosmochemistry and using chemical analysis of extraterrestrial materials to understand fundamental concepts about solar system formation and evolution. I am also interested in lunar/Martian analog research and have participated as an Analog Astronaut on a high-fidelity mission in the Arctic. In my free time, I love to draw, craft, and dance.
RARE Lab Pets
Meet Tsai-Wei's lovely kitty, April!
Meet Amelia's cuddly cat, Rocket!