My research focus is on classical and quantum gravity. Explaining the microscopic origin of black hole thermodynamics is an important aspect of my work, and tied to it is the emergence of classical spacetime in quantum gravity. On larger scales, understanding the metastability of an inflationary universe and cosmological singularities is another facet of my research.
A common obstacle is the lack of a pragmatic definition of observables appropriate for quantum gravity. Holography is a promising framework for resolving this obstacle. My strategy is to craft toy models that are manageable but still preserve key features of general relativity. Understanding fundamental aspects of quantum gravity using holography forms the centerpiece of my research.
I was born and raised in Chile. In 2004 I finished my Bachelor's degree at Universidad Catolica de Chile. My compass then aimed north, and in 2009 I received my PhD from the University of Michigan. After that I was a postdoc at McGill University (2009-2012) and then at Harvard University (2012-2013). And currently I am an Associate Professor in ITFA at UvA.