Q&A

What is the research you are engaged in and what have you accomplished this summer?

This summer I built simulations which modeled x-ray spectroscopy of titanium. The simulation was able to give an estimation for the expected signal which will guide the real-life experiment's design.

What are the impacts of your research for the general public?

The goal of our experiment is to better understand the electronic structure of titanium. We are interested in titanium because its unique electronic properties make it a candidate for use in next generation x-ray detectors.

What did you enjoy most about this research/summer experience?

I enjoyed collaborating with my group mates. They worked in-person on the real-life experiment while I worked remotely on the simulated experiment. It was cool that they could help me and I could help them even though we were on separate sides of the continent.

What did you find the most challenging about this research?

The most challenging part of research is always the beginning. It's tough to get thrown into the deep end and immediately start working on cutting edge research. It's also the most rewarding part because by the end of the program you feel like an expert in your project.

How has this experience changed your view about being a researcher?

It's reaffirmed my passion for doing research. Engineering solutions to hard problems is fun and research provides an abundance of opportunities to do just that.