Biography

Just 25 years ago, we had no evidence for planets outside our own solar system. Today, over 4000 exoplanets have been discovered. My research aims to determine how giant planets form by performing computer simulations of protoplanetary discs (discs of gas and dust that surround young stars, and are the birthplace of planets). Completing even a secondary-school level of education was not a given for me; in a family of six children, only three of us actually did, and I am the first in my family to attend university. The fact that I maintained a love of science and learning despite a difficult home life can be attributed directly to the inspiring teachers that I was lucky to have. One, in particular, hosted a 'math circle' for students after school, providing an accessible opportunity to explore the world of STEM outside of the classroom. I will always be thankful for that teacher, and for others like him. Those formative years of my life drive my passion for outreach today, and I strive for accessibility for all students, regardless of socioeconomic background. I am proud to say that my outreach endeavours currently include work with Sun Space Art, Cambridge Hands On Science (CHaOS), Nuffield research placements, and regular outreach with the Institute of Astronomy.

Previous Education

University of Dublin Trinity College Physics and Astrophysics 2019