The Bates Galaxies Lab

The Bates Astrophysics Galaxy Evolution Lab (or the “BAGEL”) uses large datasets from ground- and space-based telescopes to study several different galaxies and their unique traits. With this data, astrophysicists can evaluate how gas penetrates various galaxies, forms stars, and fuels the growth of supermassive black holes. We can also evaluate and continue questioning how energy and momentum from massive stars and black holes expel gas out of these galaxies.
The BAGEL is established and run under Professor Aleksandar M. Diamond-Stanic, Professor of Physics and Astronomy as well as Chair of the Department at Bates College. Aleksandar (Aleks) Diamond-Stanic received his BA in Physics from Carleton College and his PhD in Astronomy from the University of Arizona. He was a Center for Galaxy Evolution Fellow at the University of California, San Diego and a Grainger Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Wisconsin-Madison before joining the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Bates College. His research focuses on the evolution of galaxies and the growth of supermassive black holes through cosmic time. He brings an enthusiasm for interactive teaching methods and student engagement in research, cultivating an environment that is welcoming, equitable, and supportive of growth and success.
Start by Looking Up
background stuff
Active Projects
JWST and EBoss explaining
Previous Work
Over the years, our students and researchers have collaborated to work on different projects. Whether it’s for a senior thesis project or summer research, the BAGEL has stimulated academic growth and curious minds since 2016. By evaluating our past discoveries, we can begin to question what we know and work to uncover the breakthroughs of the future.
Presenting Research Over the Years









Creating a Community
Bates Galaxies Lab has brought together various individuals of different interests, class years, and backgrounds through a shared love of exploration and learning. Every presentation, project, and research trip brings each student closer to understanding where their own curiosity lies. This exciting journey is one we take as a team each year. Our interest in the galaxies around our own Milky Way, as well as the science that supports our current understanding of the universe, is what brings us together to create an environment stimulating growth, inquisitiveness, and a quest for knowledge.
Team Building







