Stan DeLaurentiis CC'23 Named Gates-Cambridge Scholar

Stan DeLaurentiis CC'23

Stanislav (Stan) DeLaurentiis CC’23, an astrophysics major, has been awarded the prestigious Gates-Cambridge Scholarship. The scholarship funds postgraduate study in any subject at the University of Cambridge. Recipients are selected for their outstanding intellectual ability, leadership potential, and commitment to improving the lives of others.

Originally from New Jersey, Stan’s first Columbia research experience was as a member of Professor Marcel Agüeros’ Cool Stars Lab, studying the chromospheric variability of low-mass stars in the optical band. Subsequent research included his theoretical study of alternative binary black hole formation with Professor Zoltan Haiman, which allowed him to combine his love of computing and theoretical astrophysical phenomena. Stan has served on the editorial board for the Columbia Undergraduate Science Journal (CUSJ), overseeing Physics and Mathematics submissions. Stan has also been an active board member of Columbia University Chinese Students Club (CSC) since entering Columbia, promoting Chinese culture on campus and bringing awareness to Asian-American issues.

As a Gates-Cambridge Scholar, Stanislav will complete a PhD in Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics and will work with the Theoretical Astrophysics group to study the galactic center, focusing on characterizing the fluid and orbital dynamics that govern Super-Massive Black Hole accretion disks and the objects that are embedded within them. “In addition to my academic work, I aim to devote my time to mentorship programs and science communication,” Stanislav says. “It was these forms of outreach that initially inspired me to pursue research, and I hope that I can do the same for the next generation of scientists.”

For more information about the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, please reach out to Undergraduate Research and Fellowships