Jayke N
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at University of California San Diego (UCSD)
Expertise
Astrophysics, Exoplanet Detection, Scientific Instrument Design, Planetary Formation Theory
Bio
I study exoplanets, planets around other stars. My research is largely directed towards the lofty goal of directly imaging an Earth-like planet around a Sun-like star. Unfortunately, directly imaging exoplanets is not as easy as just taking a picture of a star. A lot of research needs to be done on improving telescope design, creating efficient detectors, and developing data analysis techniques to ultimately take images of exoplanets. I like to think of my research as helping us understand the fundamental questions of how planets formed and whether or not there's any other systems out there like us. I can usually be found on the weekends picking through used records and cassettes at the local stores. I also like to tinker with vintage electronics, collecting and refurbishing cassette decks or any old audio equipment I can get my hands on. I also do photography as well, and can usually be found with a camera in my hand wherever I go.Project ideas
Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.
Designing A Scientific Instrument For Finding Exoplanets
What do you need to find an exoplanet around another star? This project would be research to understand the field of scientific instrument design for astrophysics and astronomy. The student would create a mock-up of a scientific instrument that can directly image exoplanets, but is also reasonable to build and construct with current technology.
Coding skills
Python, C, C++, Julia, CTeaching experience
I am currently mentoring an undergraduate student in my research group. I have also advised an undergraduate student and other graduate students on research and future careers. I previously have taught discussion sections for lower division college-level physics classes.Credentials
Education
University of California Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
BA Bachelor of Arts (2018)
Physics & AstrophysicsUniversity of California San Diego (UCSD)
PhD Doctor of Philosophy candidate
Astronomy & Astrophysics