My name is Christina Sowinski and I am a Ph.D. student at the University of Virginia researching planetary geomorphology. As a planetary geomorphologist, I study how landscapes evolve on different planets in our solar system. In particular, I am intereseted in aeolian processes and how wind transforms landscapes including the erosion of yardangs and scour pits as well as the deposition of dunes and ripples.

I recieved my BSc in Planetary Sciences and Geology & Geophysics from Purdue University in Spring 2026. During my undergraduate studies, my research interests lead me to work on a variety of projects in the Medusae Fossae Formation on Mars, the Jezero Crater rim, and on Comet 67P.

I am also passionate about STEM outreach and communication! I have been involved with organizing several Science Olympiad tournaments to expose the next generation to different topics in STEM and encourage a new generation of scientists. I enjoy speaking with students about science and what a career in STEM can look.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking the National Parks with my dog, Chewie, playing ultimate frisbee, and writing music!