Gee B.
"As well as my work in Germany at GSI, I've had the opportunity to work on experiments all over the world, including at RIKEN in Japan, CERN in Switzerland, and TRIUMF in Canada."
Please give us a brief synopsis of your research project.
My research project is in the field of experimental nuclear physics. Specifically, my work focuses on the creation of heavy and exotic nuclei with lots of neutrons. As part of my PhD, I had the opportunity to spend 8 months at a lab in Germany called GSI working with beams from their Heavy Ion Synchrotron to produce over 60 different species of nuclei! I worked on my data here at Surrey by looking at gamma-ray transitions and half-lives of these nuclei. One of the most exciting parts of my research was observing a new nucleus that had never been seen before!
Why did you choose to study at Surrey for your PhD?
"I chose to study at Surrey for my PhD primarily because of how incredible and renowned the group is for their work in nuclear physics. The facilities for nuclear physics, like the brand new radiation lab, were also a huge selling point."
I also love the campus for the beautiful green spaces, as well as the walking distance to the historic Guildford town centre. Outside of work, I've found the university societies very inclusive of PGRs and have managed to keep up my hobbies alongside my research.
Why are you passionate about your area of research?
I'm super passionate about my area of research for a variety of reasons. Most of the work we do in the Surrey group is based around recreating nuclear processes that happen in stellar environments such as supernovae and neutron star mergers; creating nuclei that only form naturally in space is incredibly cool! Also, the current research into nuclear fusion for the production of a new kind of sustainable energy is something I'm very excited about, as well as the application and production of radionuclides used in cancer treatment.
Have you had opportunities to collaborate with others during your PhD?
I have been incredibly lucky with how many opportunities I've had to collaborate with other researchers. As well as my work in Germany at GSI, I've had the opportunity to work on experiments all over the world, including at RIKEN in Japan, CERN in Switzerland, and TRIUMF in Canada.
"As well as this, I've presented my research at conferences across the UK, in Germany and in Poland. I've also collaborated with various UK institutions such as other UK universities and the National Physical Laboratory."
I'm so incredibly grateful for all the experiences that Surrey have provided me with.
What support have you had?
I've had lots of support in my time at Surrey. Primarily from my supervisor who has always made time to meet with me and answer any questions I have. The rest of the research group have also been incredibly helpful and enthusiastic to help with any problems I'm facing.
"The Doctoral College itself has been great! Before my PhD examination I was able to have a face-to-face mock viva with one of their staff members, which really calmed my nerves for the real thing."
To try and carry forward the support I've received, I signed up to be a peer mentor where I worked one-to-one with students and help them navigate scientific report writing and university life.
What do you plan to do once you've finished your PhD?
After my PhD, I'm planning to stay in the world of research, whether that's through a PostDoc or through a research and development position. I hope to be able to use the skills I've gained during my PhD to make a meaningful impact in the world of nuclear physics. I'm hoping to publish the results from my PhD project, and work toward future research projects and publications very soon!
