To boost opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in research, the Faculty of Science introduced new funding to support summer research assistantships. As a result, over 50 undergraduates participated in world-renowned research under the guidance of esteemed faculty tackling some of the most complex challenges of our time.
One such student is Pluto Jiang, a Physics and Astronomy major with a minor in Computing, who is entering their 4A term this fall. Jiang is channelling their passion for planetary evolution by applying their coding skills to understand how planets form. They view this summer research as an invaluable experience, preparing them for their upcoming undergraduate thesis project.
How did you secure a summer research assistantship?
I found the opportunity to a secure full-time research position through Waterloo Works. When I saw Professor Michael Balogh's post about a role for a physics and astronomy research assistant, I applied right away and was fortunate to secure the position.
Tell us about the research you are doing and what you are learning
My research is in theoretical physics and focuses on simulations that explore how planets form and how the disc in which they form behaves. I am implementing a planetesimal code into an existing class of functions called DiscEvolution. Before this, I explored a publicly available code called chemcomp, which deals with the chemistry in a protoplanetary disc. I am combining various aspects of planetary evolution into a cohesive study by analyzing codes and papers.
What is the impact of this research?
While still in its early stages, this work aims to help us understand how planets form by considering different aspects of physics, chemistry, and biology. Planetary evolution is incredibly complex and involves fluid dynamics, chemistry, and the interactions within protoplanetary discs. My research attempts to bring these elements together to see how they interact.
How do you feel you have benefited from being a summer research assistant?
This experience has been a rewarding one. Working with an established researcher at the University of Waterloo has provided a fantastic opportunity, and I'm eager to transition this project into my undergraduate thesis this fall. It's sharpened my focus on planetary evolution and has given me valuable experience that will be instrumental if I pursue a master’s degree.
