STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Nirajara Dungwatanawanich! Nirajara is a fourth-year, double majoring in Computer Science and Physics, and is looking to become a researcher in either industry or academia, in the field of condensed matter physics and/or quantum information science. She is involved in the Clare Boothe Luce (CBL) Scholars Program, which has not only connected her with other undergraduate researchers, but also provided classes on essential research/career knowledge, such as authorship, presenting, conferences, and graduate school. Nirajara advises students thinking about getting involved in research to “Take the time you need to learn all the new information and techniques, and don’t forget to ask questions!” Read Nirajara’s full interview below.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project?

I first reached out through email to Dr. Steven Furlanetto in my third year. After a couple of meetings, I started learning how to use the 21cmFAST code for my research, creating models, and now I am in the process of writing a paper.

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?

My research experience at UCLA has been very rewarding. It has taught me a lot about the research process and how research is about incremental progress. I have learned to stay persistent and develop a research workflow, especially when it comes to generating, saving, and making data presentable. Being organized has been a very important part of my research experience.

3. What is your year and major?

I am a fourth year double majoring in Computer Science and Physics.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

Be patient with yourself. Starting a new research project can be intimidating and can come with a huge influx of new information. Take the time you need to learn all the new information and techniques, and don’t forget to ask questions! Also, make sure to take notes throughout the process. It is very easy to forget what you did 6 months ago.

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?

I have yet to attend a conference to present my research! However, I have attended the Clare Boothe Luce Program Women in STEM Conference in Chicago, where I attended workshops and met many accomplished scientists.

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?

Not yet, but hopefully soon!

7. What are your future career goals?

I am looking to become a researcher either in industry or academia in the field of condensed matter physics and/or quantum information science.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in. How has your experience been as a Clare Boothe Luce Scholar?

I am grateful to be involved in the Clare Boothe Luce (CBL) Scholar program at UCLA. CBL has not only connected me with other undergraduate researchers, but it has also provided classes on essential research/career knowledge, such as authorship, presenting, conferences, and graduate school. Additionally, CBL has given me the opportunity to visit Chicago and meet other CBL scholars from around the nation.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?

Doing research as an undergraduate student has ultimately led to my decision to pursue a research career. I have really enjoyed the novelty and the creative aspect of research, as well as its interdisciplinary nature. I have happily used my programming skills in each of my research projects and I look forward to continuing to do that.