projects
what we are currently working on
Below you can find a non-exhaustive list of projects our research group has been working on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How can I get involved in nuclear astrophysics research at SMU?
A: You are lucky that SMU has a few people working in nuclear astrophysics! In addition to me, you can also work with Prof. Christian on experimental studies.
Q: Are there opportunities for undergraduate students?
A: Of course! There are many projects for students at all levels, from first-year to senior undergraduates. You can also apply for Fellowships to partially support you (see below).
Q: Do I need prior experience in nuclear physics or astrophysics?
A: Not at all. A background in physics is helpful, but enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are most important. We provide training in the necessary experimental and computational techniques.
Q: What skills will I gain from working in your group?
A: Depending on the project, you could learn experimental techniques at accelerator facilities, programming and data analysis (Python, C++), or computational modeling of astrophysical environments.
Q: Are projects available during the summer or the academic year?
A: Yes. We have opportunities for both summer research (often with fellowships) and part-time projects during the school year.
Q: Do you collaborate with other universities or labs?
A: Absolutely. Our group works with researchers at TRIUMF, RIKEN, FRIB, and other international facilities. Students working in the group will have the opportunity to travel for experiments or meet our collaborators.
Q: I have finished my Ph.D. and I am looking for a postdoc. Are there any positions available?
A: I am currently not hiring postdocs, but if you are interested in any of the Fellowships below, I would be happy to support you and your proposed project!
Q: How should I contact you if I’m interested?
A: Send me an email with a brief introduction, your background, and any particular interests. Then we can then arrange a time to talk about potential projects.
Research fellowships for students and postdocs
Undergraduate students
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NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards ($6,000 stipend for 16 weeks, in addition to at least another $4,000 and travel support)
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CINP Undergraduate Research Scholarship ($6,000 stipend for 16 weeks, in addition to at least another $4,000 and travel support)
Graduate students
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NSERC Canada Graduate Research Scholarship (Ph.D) ($40,000 per year for 3 years)
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NSERC Canada Graduate Research Scholarship (M.Sc.) ($27,000 for 12 months)
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CINP Graduate Fellowship ($15,000)
Postdoctoral fellows
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Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan (JSPS) (¥362,000 per month, round-trip air ticket, and ¥200,000 settling-in allowance)