I'm a recent Master's graduate in Astrophysics from the University of the Free State, with a passion for data analysis, scientific computing, and software development. My research focused on spectropolarimetric observations, where I developed a Python package, STOPS, to aid in data reduction, calibration, and visualization for SALT/RSS observations.

• MSc in Astrophysics (2020 - 2024)
  University of the Free State

  • Developed the STOPS pipeline for astronomical data reduction
  • Collaborated on research resulting in multiple publications

• BSc (Hons) in Astrophysics, cum laude (2019)
  University of the Free State

  • Specialized in computational methods and multi-wavelength data analysis

• BSc in Physics and Astronomy, cum laude (2016 - 2018)
  University of the Free State

• GitHub: JustinotherGitter
• LinkedIn: justin-cooper-sa
• Google Scholar: Publications

• Programming Languages:
  • Python (familiar with scientific packages such as NumPy, SciPy, and Pandas, etc.)
  • Linux and Bash
  • Learning Rust and LaTeX
• Software & Tools:
  • GitHub, VSCode, IRAF, Microsoft Office, Overleaf
• Key Areas of Expertise:
  • Data Reduction and Calibration
  • Scientific Visualization
  • Statistical Analysis and Modeling
  • Pipeline Development and Automation

• Practical Demonstrator (2019 - 2023)
  University of the Free State

  • Supervised and guided students in Astrophysics and Electronics practicals
  • Taught Python programming, data management, and circuit design

• Research Assistant (2018 - 2024)
  University of the Free State

  • Assisted in astronomical data reductions and analysis
  • Contributed to multiple research publications

• STOPS - A Python package for spectropolarimetric data reduction
  GitHub Repository

1. "Spectropolarimetry and Photometry of the Early Afterglow of GRB 191221B"
   Buckley et al., MNRAS, 2021 (DOI)

2. "Modeling the Spectral Energy Distributions and Spectropolarimetry of Blazars"
   Schutte et al., ApJ, 2022 (DOI)

3. "The Vanishing of the Primary Emission Region in PKS 1510–089"
   Aharonian et al., ApJ, 2023 (DOI)

• I enjoy problem-solving and am always up for a challenge.
• Fascinated by procedural art.
• Enthusiastic about, and stay active through, sports and group activities!

Thanks for visiting my profile! Feel free to reach out or collaborate on exciting projects!