Jessie is an undergraduate student at the University of Sussex.
Her research involves working on simulations of galaxy formation, so nothing to do with DES! But her role in DES for the past 2 years is working within the education and public outreach team under supervision of Professor Kathy Romer. Her main job recently has been upkeep of the DES public webpage as well as keeping in contact with all DES members keeping them engaged with public outreach.
We asked Jessie a few questions, here’s what she had to say…
What motivates / inspires you?
I have really amazing mentors. I’m lucky enough to work with quite a few people in different places. They inspire me a lot and encourage me and more than anything they challenge me. It’s tough sometimes but it pays off.
What is your favorite space-related image, and why?
I’m going to plug myself here and say my favourite image is one that I took myself of the moon with the rooftop telescope at the University of Sussex!
What is your favorite book, movie, and/or TV show?
My favourite film (& book) is ‘Contact’ by Carl Sagan.
What is your secret talent?
That I am also a trained opera singer. Although I never sing anymore so I’m not sure people really believe me! I also play piano, flute and organ.
What do you think has been the most exciting advance in physics / astronomy in the last 10 years?
I was so excited to be part of DES during the first detection of gravitational waves, and then again for the detection of the optical counterpart. It’s opened up a whole new field of physics.
Any advice for aspiring scientists?
Do what you love. When I was younger, even though I loved maths and science, I just didn’t think I would ever be clever enough to be a scientist. It turns out if you work really hard you can achieve pretty much anything.