Ilsa Cooke

Ilsa Cooke is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at The University of British Columbia. Her research focuses on laboratory surface and gas-phase experiments to investigate the formation of molecules in interstellar space, particularly the role of icy dust grains in interstellar chemistry. Her work explores the diffusion and desorption mechanisms of radicals on ice surfaces, the production of aromatic molecules, and experimental support for astronomical observations. Cooke is involved in the GOTHAM collaboration, which uses radio telescopes to search for new molecules in the interstellar medium. Her research aims to understand how complex organic molecules form and evolve in space, potentially contributing to the chemical ingredients for life.

Ilsa Cooke is a researcher at the University of British Columbia, specializing in astrochemistry, laboratory astrophysics, surface science, and chemical kinetics. Her work focuses on the detection and analysis of complex organic molecules in interstellar space, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their nitrile derivatives. Cooke's research includes the identification of aromatic compounds in star-forming regions and protoplanetary disks, utilizing advanced observational techniques and laboratory experiments. Her contributions to the field include studies on the chemical evolution of interstellar ice and the role of radiative feedback in shaping interstellar environments.