Zack Gainsforth

Space Scientist • Microscopist • Maker

Welcome to my portfolio showcasing decades of work analyzing extraterrestrial materials using cutting-edge microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.

🔬 Advanced Microscopy
Expert in electron and X-ray microscopies
⚛️ Simulations
Computational modeling and theoretical simulations
🚀 Space Missions
NASA missions including OSIRIS-REx, Stardust and Genesis and JAXA Hayabusa 2
📖 Publications
Author and co-author on multiple peer-reviewed publications

Simulations

Computational modeling using molecular dynamics, density functional theory, and X-ray spectroscopy simulations. High-performance computing on supercomputers to understand materials at the atomic scale.

Space Missions

Currently working on NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission, analyzing asteroid Bennu samples. Involved in major NASA missions including Genesis, Stardust, and JAXA Hayabusa 2.

Publications & Innovation

Contributing to groundbreaking papers in Nature family journals and developing innovative analysis software like LibraryGPT. Pioneer in applying machine learning to cosmic dust analysis.

Technical Skills

Expert in sample preparation, machine learning, and materials characterization. Experience with materials from comets, asteroids, and interstellar space.