Second Year Reflection

In a more casual episode, three of my friends and I reflect on our second year of studying Physics, discussing what went right, what went wrong, likes/dislikes, what we wished we knew going into it, aspirations for the future and more.

Everything you've ever wanted to know about doing a PhD is revealed today as I talk to a PhD student, Emma Gillard, about her PhD research. We talk about some of the basics of her research involving nuclear fusion and superconductivity, as well as all the gory details on what doing a PhD is actually like.

Today Ben and I are joined by the legendary Jens Funke who talks to us about his research into number theory! We also discuss topics such as the importance of looking at the history of maths, how mathematics differs from physics as a more theoretical discipline, how maths is used for physics and vice-versa, and more.

Today I talk to Daniele Dorigoni, a quantum field theorist. We discuss quantum field theory, the day-to-day life of research, what it's like paving your way in the field of academia and more.For the first time, I also have a cohost! I'm joined to talk to Daniele by my good friend and housemate, Ben Bradley.

Today I speak with Sownak Bose about his research on dark matter and galaxy formation! We discuss how computers can be used to test the accuracy of different models of dark matter by comparing simulated galaxies to real observations, how astronomy changes our perception of our place in the universe, what the future of dark matter research may hold, and more!Have a go at making your own universe here!You can see what else Sownak has gotten up to here.

Today I'm joined by Professor Charles Adams, who speaks to me about his research in quantum optics. We discuss Adams' path into academia, "the quantum question", and even the traumatic possibility of quantum printers.

Today I'm joined by Dr Francesca Chadha-Day who talks to me about her research which looks to find new fundamental physics by observing the extreme conditions of space, as well as her work as a science comedian!You can learn more about what Fran has done at her website, or on her twitter page.Keep an eye out for "Are dreams made of atoms" during the Durham Fringe Festival this year!

Today I am joined by Professor Chris Done, who talks to me about her research on x-ray emissions from black holes, as well as her career path, which involves a year in Japan and a rocket launch!

Today I am joined by Dr Alex Peach, a lecturer at Durham University, who talks to me about his research in gravity, the holographic principle, how science/physics changes with time, and cats (surprisingly, not of the Schrödinger variety!)

Today I'm joined by Victoria Fawcett, a PhD student who researches dust-reddened quasars. She describes her research involving observed differences in the radio spectrum between red and blue quasars, and how she ended up doing it. Afterwards, we discuss her involvement in scientific outreach.You can read more about what Vicky does here, as well as find her on twitter.