Following the Stars: Where Charity Woodrum Is Now
Charity Woodrum, Astronomy PhD ’24, is now a NASA Postdoctoral Fellow at Goddard Space Flight Center.
After completing her PhD in Astronomy & Astrophysics at the University of Arizona in 2024, Charity Woodrum has continued her inspiring journey in astrophysics as a NASA Postdoctoral Fellow at Goddard Space Flight Center. In this role, she contributes to the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) mission—specifically as part of the NIRCam science team and the JADES collaboration—focusing her research on galaxy formation, stellar mass growth, and the processes governing galaxy quenching.
This August, Charity was featured in Radiolab’s episode “Galaxy Quenching,” where she reflected on her scientific path, her work on how galaxies sustain or cease star formation, and the personal resilience that has shaped her career. The program spotlighted her post-graduation trajectory, offering listeners an intimate look at both her research and her journey beyond the University of Arizona.
Beyond her contributions to cutting-edge astronomy, Charity has remained active in public outreach and science communication. She’s appeared on live television as a NASA expert—offering insights on intriguing phenomena such as “zombie stars” and rare stellar events—and continues to mentor through educational initiatives. Notably, inspired by her late son Woody, she established the Woody’s Stars Fund, which provides financial support and mentorship to aspiring STEM students.
Away from her astronomical pursuits, Charity earned her private pilot license and is pursuing further certifications—combining her love of flight with her scientific aspirations.