My name is Hilding Neilson (he/him) and my goal is to explore astronomy and space through the lens of traditional western science and Indigenous methodologies. I am an assistant professor in the Department of Physics & Physical Oceanography at Memorial University of Newfoundland & Labrador in St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada. I am Mi’kmaw and Settler originally from the west coast of the island of Newfoundland.

My research includes studying stellar astrophysics, stellar evolution, exoplanets, and the search for life on other worlds. I apply theoretical and numerical methods for these studies and sometimes include observations. More importantly, I work to understand these phenomena using Indigenous methodologies and ways of knowing using the concept of Two-Eyed Seeing.

I am also an advocate for ethical space exploration and interaction as well as for the protection of dark skies. With the explosive growth of satellites being put in orbit around the Earth and the plans to exploit cosmic bodies in the Solar System, it is becoming more and more important to change how humans and those in positions of power relate to and interact with Outer Space. To that end I work to weave environmentalist and Indigenous perspectives to develop more ethical frameworks.
I believe that science is for everyone and is a part of everyone. I love sharing science and stories and learning from others about their views of the night skies and the stars. I conduct community outreach and engagement in Newfoundland & Labrador and beyond to share the love of science and astronomy.

Find me online

BlueSky: @astrojipjawej.bsky.social
X/Twitter: @astrojipjawej
Linkedin: Hilding_Neilson