Its literally a broad subject that can include anything from quantum mechanics and relativity to exoplanets and black holes.
To explain my current research, I have to go back to the beginning.
During the Big Bang, the only elements that were created were hydrogen and helium.
The new elements then mixed with the original gas from the Big Bang and coalesced to form new stars.
What I do is look at elements within nearby stars, using a technique called spectroscopy.
What drove you to choose your career path?
But I was just stunned that you could see so much detail in something that was so far away.
In high school, I was really geared towards math.
I enjoyed the class a lot and continued to take more, which lead me to taking physics classes.
But, I really enjoyed researching a lot and exploring new ideas.
How did you go about getting your job?
What kind of education and experience did you need?
First, I got my bachelors degree in physics with a minor in math (from Oberlin College).
Then, I went to graduate school for 6 years for get my PhD.
There are many options open to me right now.
What kinds of things do you do beyond what most people see?
What do you actually spend the majority of your time doing?
I spend the vast majority of my time programming.
Once you get the data, you have to reduce it (i.e.
What misconceptions do people often have about your job?
In general, people assume I study aliens.
What are your average work hours?
Weirdly, I dont really have a typical.
In fact, a lot of times I work from home.
As long as the work gets done and deadlines are met, then everyone is happy.
This can be really nice if Im exhausted and need to sleep in, for example.
On the other hand, its a double-edged sword in that I work a lot on weekends.
What personal tips and shortcuts made your job easier?
Well first, as an undergraduate, I did a lot of research.
I wanted to see what it was like and if it was something I wanted to do as career.
What do you do differently from your coworkers or peers in the same profession?
(Well, of course every researcher has a distinct focus.)
Many people in the field focus very narrowly into their chosen research topic.
I take a much broader approach: I do stars but I also do planets.
I do observations but I also do theoretical work (with models and simulations).
I do lot of things and I find a way to tie them all together.
Whats the worst part of the job and how do you deal with it?
The worst part of the job, at least right now, is the temporariness of every contract.
Ive moved four times in as many years, which is exhausting.
Whats the most enjoyable part of the job?
I get to do what I love.
No doubt about it.
It gives you a real sense of drive, one that I appreciate very much.
What kind of money can one expect to make at your job?
Or, whats an average starting salary?
Being an astrophysicist typically means your life will be comfortable but not extravagant.
Its one of those small, common occurrences that can really make a big morale difference.
Is there a way to move up in your field?
Do you ever see yourself working in the private sector?
As I mentioned, possibilities for me are rather open right now.
What do people under/over value about what you do?
To quote Douglas Adams, Space is big.
You just wont believe how vastly, hugely, mind-bogglingly big it is.
What advice would you give to those aspiring to join your profession?
Dont be afraid of math.
Try internships to see if/what you like about the science.
