Dr. Edgar Mendoza’s research interests include the astrophysics of the interstellar medium, astrochemistry, and radio astronomy, with a focus on the evolution of molecular gas in star-forming regions. He uses observational data from submillimeter observatories, combining it with simulations of radiative, quantum, and kinetic processes that involve gas and dust. He has authored and co-authored peer-reviewed articles featured in Q1-tier scientific journals. Beyond research, he has supervised graduate research projects in Astronomy and maintains an active role in public science outreach initiatives.
Astrochemistry & Molecular Astrophysics
Molecular Complexity & Chemical Evolution in Star‑Forming Regions
Tracing the formation and evolutionary buildup of interstellar COMs and prebiotic species across molecular clouds, prestellar cores, and protostellar systems.
Interstellar Dust & Gas–Grain Chemistry
Investigating how gas–grain interactions regulate molecular abundances and drive the rise of chemical complexity toward planetary system formation.
AI/ML for Astrochemical Spectroscopy
Research Areas
Observational and computational research in the field of Astrochemistry
Molecular Complexity & Chemical Evolution in Star‑Forming Regions
Tracing the formation and evolutionary buildup of interstellar COMs and prebiotic species across molecular clouds, prestellar cores, and protostellar systems.
Interstellar Dust & Gas–Grain Chemistry
Investigating how gas–grain interactions regulate molecular abundances and drive the rise of chemical complexity toward planetary system formation.
AI/ML for Astrochemical Spectroscopy
Education
2010-08--2014-11 Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Doctoral degree in Astronomy
2002-02--2009-10 Industrial University of Santander Bachelor in Science