Dr. Begüm Kabagöz

Dr. Begüm Kabagöz is a Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate in Physics at the California Institute of Technology, stationed at LIGO Livingston Observatory. She earned a double major in Electrical Engineering and Physics from Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara, Turkey, supported by the prestigious TUBITAK Scholarship for Double Major in Science. She completed her PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Boston University, where her doctoral research, titled "Energetic Ultrafast Frequency Generation in Multimode Fibers," advanced the understanding of nonlinear optical phenomena with higher-order modes in complex fiber systems in the ultrafast regime. The broad knowledge gained from this work has been instrumental in her transition to precision quantum metrology.

At LIGO Livingston, Dr. Kabagöz works on quantum noise reduction for gravitational-wave detectors, drawing on her interdisciplinary expertise in experimental physics and electrical engineering. She enjoys the challenge of tackling complex problems that require innovative solutions and collaborative approaches. Working in LIGO’s collaborative environment, where individuals with diverse and fluid expertise work towards a common goal, has profoundly shaped her perspective on teamwork and the power of collective problem-solving in science.

Dr. Kabagöz’s accomplishments have been recognized with the 2023 Boston University Electrical and Computer Engineering Doctoral Achievement Award for outstanding achievement in research, teaching and mentoring, and service to the community. She has been actively engaged in mentorship and outreach throughout her career. During her PhD, she co-founded a graduate student organization focused on community building and enhancing graduate student experience. She is dedicated to mentoring, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and creating equitable opportunities in STEM. She believes cultivating a collaborative and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued and supported not only enhances creativity but also propels scientific advancements.

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