Mia Hatch completed an eight week summer project which gave her a taste of what working in astrophysics research is like, and helped her decide on a career pathway after graduation.
The project has allowed me to use skills and knowledge that I have developed throughout my time at university so far. I particularly enjoyed being able to build on my existing programming knowledge and having the independence to experiment with different techniques in ways which are not possible in the classroom, and without the pressure of a grade. I have also acquired more of an understanding of astronomy and how the courses I have taken so far can be applied in practice. I feel more confident approaching my upcoming Senior Honours and MPhys Projects in fourth and fifth year.
My project was entitled ‘Searching for intergalactic carbon in cosmological simulations’ and involved creating and analysing simulations to detect metals in the intergalactic medium after supernova explosions occur. I was paired with a supervisor, who is an academic member of staff, and we met twice a week to discuss the project. She was incredibly helpful, and always available if I had any questions.
Overall, I would highly recommend applying for a career development summer project if you are considering pursuing research after university. Even if you are not too sure, it’s a great way to develop transferable skills for your future career.
Further information
Learn more about the School of Physics and Astronomy’s Career Development Summer Scholarship Programme: SoPA Summer Programme
