About me
Who I am
I'm Laurent Magri-Stella, a PhD student in computational cosmology and numerical relativity at LAPP, in Annecy, France. Most of my work sits between theory, code, and simulation, trying to understand how light travels through a Universe that isn't perfectly smooth.
Scientific focus today
Right now I'm building C++ and Python versions of a tool that simulate how light rays travel and deform, and what that means for gravitational lensing statistics. Longer term, I want to connect these models to methods that infer cluster shape and mass from what we actually observe.
Academic trajectory
I hold two master's degrees in theoretical physics, one focused on relativity and cosmology, the other leaning more toward quantum field theory and particle physics. A few internships and research projects along the way:
- Geodesics in perturbed FLRW spacetimes Theoretical and numerical study of light propagation in realistic cosmological settings.
- Weak gravitational flexion in simulations Higher-order lensing observables and halo-shape constraints.
- Peculiar galaxy velocities Forecasting methods and numerical work oriented towards cosmological surveys.
- Light propagation in Lemaitre-Tolman-Bondi spacetimes Relativistic effects in inhomogeneous cosmological models.
Beyond core research
Science communication
Explaining physics ideas without flattening them is tricky stuff, but very important.
Teaching
I've taught since my first year as a physics undergrad. It's shaped how I explain my own research just as much as it shaped my students.
Storytelling
Tabletop RPGs and narrative design have been a hobby of mine for years. They probably influence how I talk about physics more than I'd like to admit.
Discipline and play
Judo and chess, mostly. Equal parts stress relief and a constant reminder that patience beats brute force.
Why this work matters to me
I want to help us understand the Universe a bit better, and I want to pass on the excitement I feel about physics to people just starting out. Teachers and mentors did that for me. This website is my small attempt at the same thing.