About Dakotah
Astrophysicist • Science Communicator • Keynote Speaker •
Astrophysicist • Science Communicator • Keynote Speaker •
From the Gridiron to Galaxies
Dakotah Tyler went from Division I college football at the University of Kentucky to delving into the mysteries of the universe. An injury halted his athletic career but opened the door to an unquenchable curiosity about space. With grit and resilience born from years of athletic competition, Dakotah transitioned to academia, starting at a community college to grasp the basics of math and physics. He earned dual Bachelor’s degrees in physics and astrophysics from the University of Cincinnati, enriching his academic journey with research stints at both the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.
Dakotah earned a Master's of Science in Astronomy & Astrophysics at UCLA and is currently a Ph.D. Candidate. His dissertation focus is on the evolution and demographics of extrasolar planets, which he studies by collecting observations with telescopes situated across the globe. Contributing to over a dozen publications, his research spans a diverse range of topics—from gas giants losing their atmospheres, to small planets orbiting red dwarf stars, and even supernovae in distant galaxies. Outside the lab, Dakotah enriches through public engagement and education. He's designed and taught a curriculum focused on exoplanets for non-STEM majors, and keeps the public engaged through planetarium shows and public talks.
Journey to Master the Universe
Dakotah's academic journey has done more than shape him as a scientist; it's crafted him into a leading voice in science communication and education. As one of the few Black professionals in astrophysics, he's on a mission to ignite curiosity and wonder, especially among young people and communities often overlooked by traditional science education. Through lectures, public speaking, social media, and collaborations with educational and other STEM organizations, Dakotah is making science relatable and accessible to all.