Woodward is an international expert in XUVOIR ground, and space-based observational astrophysics, instrumentation development, and telescope construction, management, and operations. He also has significant experience in national space policy. His primary research is on the physical properties of astrophysical grains in interstellar, circumstellar, and solar system environments, the physics of nova explosions and their chemical contributions to the interstellar medium, the physical characteristics of the circumstellar ejecta of evolved stars, evolved stellar population demographics, and the IR activity of comet nuclei and small solar system bodies. He played a significant role in the programmatic development of the NASA's Space Infrared Telescope Facility (Spitzer) legacy sciences opportunities, and has participated in mentoring programs to enhance diversity in the field of astrophysics. His research is supported by the NSF and NASA.
Education
Ph.D., University of Rochester, 1987
M.A., University of Rochester, 1982
A.B., Dartmouth College, 1980
Professional Background
Professor, University of Minnesota, 2005-present
Chair, NASA SOFIA Users Committee, present
Member of the NASA HQ Astrophysics Advisory Committee (FACA Cmte.), present
Board Member and Vice-Chair, Large Binocular Telescope Corporation, present
Vice-President, The American Astronomical Society, 2015-2018
Member, NAS/NRC Committee on the Survey of Surveys 2013-2015
Team Member, NASA Discovery (Planetary) Mission Selection Panel, 2011-2012
Member, Astronomy Astrophysics Advisory Committee, 2009-2012
Member, National Academy Science, Space Studies Board, 2007-2011
Councilor, American Astronomical Society, 2008-2011
Member, OIR Panel Ast2010 Decadal Committee, 2008-2010
Chair, International Gemini Observatory Board 2007-2010
Associate Professor, University of Minnesota, 2000-2004
Scientific & Professional Societies
American Astronomical Society
