As an expert in the field of black hole astrophysics, Markoff works at the intersection of astrophysics and astroparticle physics. Her research focuses on understanding the extreme interactions of matter around compact objects such as black holes, and the way in which these black holes influence their environment.

She will be the 17th Plumian Professor in Cambridge and the first woman to hold this position. It is one of the oldest chairs in the world, established in 1704 by Sir Isaac Newton. Previous Plumian Professors include the eminent astronomers Sir Arthur Eddington, Sir Fred Hoyle, and Lord Martin Rees. She has also been appointed a Fellow of Newnham College.

Markoff is honored by the appointment: "I am delighted to be starting a new chapter in my career at Cambridge. Many great people in my field have held this position before me. I really enjoy bringing people together and setting up new initiatives, and Cambridge offers a unique, stimulating environment in which to further develop the field of astroparticle physics and black hole research."