The PAM Talks
The PAM Talks
The PAM Talks
The Physics and Astronomy Mentors (PAM) Talks is a student-led podcast showcasing the voices of researchers who are a part of traditionally underrepresented groups in Physics and Astronomy, including women and other gender minorities.
2.0.3 Dr. Shohini Ghose - Celebrating Women in Physics and Astronomy
Dr. Shohini Ghose wears many hats! She is Professor of Physics and Computer Science at Wilfrid Laurier University and Chief Technology Officer of the Quantum Algorithms Institute. Her research focuses on quantum superposition and entanglement, uncovering their applications in computing and information processing. Beyond her scientific achievements, Dr. Ghose is a champion for equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM. She serves as an NSERC Chair for Women in Science and Engineering and leads impactful programs as the Research and Programs Director of the Laurier Centre for Women in Science. In her award-winning book, Her Space, Her Time, Dr. Ghose brings to light the stories of pioneering women in physics and astronomy, inspiring readers with their remarkable journeys. In this interview, hosted by MSc student Gabby Gelinas, we explore how quantum computing is shaping our world and learn about Dr. Ghose's efforts to honor the trailblazers of the past while paving the way for future generations of women in physics. Mentor: Dr. Shohini Ghose, Professor of Physics and Computer Science at Wilfrid Laurier University and Chief Technology Officer of the Quantum Algorithms Institute. NSERC Chair for Women in Science and Engineering. Research and Programs Director of the Laurier Centre for Women in Science. Host: Gabby Gelinas, MSc student, University of British Columbia Edited and produced by: Becky Booth, PhD candidate, University of Calgary The PAM Talks gratefully acknowledges support from the University of Calgary Graduate Student Association Quality Money grant program.
Dec 11, 2024
31 min
2.0.2 Dr. Emma Spanswick - Space Physics is a Team Sport
In this episode, Dr. Emma Spanswick discusses how her cross-disciplinary team leverages the expertise of physicists, engineers, and computer scientists to uncover the impacts of the space environment on Earth’s atmosphere.
Nov 15, 2024
27 min
2.0.1 Abby Swadling - The Spectroscopy of Antihydrogen
In this episode, master’s student Abby Swadling discusses her work with an international team at CERN to measure antihydrogen’s properties, a step toward solving the mystery of missing antimatter in the universe.
Nov 1, 2024
22 min
1.5.2 Dr. Jo-Anne Brown - Envisioning a new model for the Galactic magnetic field
Dr. Jo-Anne Brown is a Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Calgary. Dr. Brown's radio astronomy research focuses on measuring the Galactic magnetic field. Over the years, she has supervised numerous graduate students, including Dr. Anna Ordog, who was featured in episode 1.0.1 of The PAM Talks podcast. In this episode, Dr. Brown joins Jia Yi Ren, an undergraduate student in astrophysics, to discuss shifting career paths and exploring new ideas about the 3D configuration of the magnetic field in our Milky Way Galaxy. The PAM Talks team is working hard on preparing a fantastic line-up of Season 2 interviews. While you wait, you can listen to these "Season 1.5" epsiodes, which will be audio versions of our original PAM Talks youtube series. Host: Jia Yi Ren, undergraduate student, University of Calgary Produced and edited by: Dr. Davor Curic, University of Calgary The PAM Talks gratefully acknowledges support from the University of Calgary Graduate Student Association Quality Money grant program.
Oct 8, 2024
9 min
1.5.1 Pooja Woosaree - Does antimatter fall down?
In this first rereleased interview, Pooja Woosaree, a PhD student in particle physics, is in conversation with Victoria Gonzalez, an astrophysics undergraduate student. Coming to you from their school, the University of Calgary, they talk about the journey to graduate school and the wonders of particle accelerators. The PAM Talks team is working hard on preparing a fantastic line-up of Season 2 interviews. While you wait, you can listen to these "Season 1.5" epsiodes, which will be audio versions of our original PAM Talks youtube series. Host: Victoria Gonzalez, undergraduate student, University of Calgary Produced and edited by: Dr. Davor Curic, University of Calgary The PAM Talks gratefully acknowledges support from the University of Calgary Graduate Student Association Quality Money grant program.
Oct 4, 2024
7 min
1.0.5 Dr. Laura Mazzino - Measuring Space Weather
What would happen if the Earth experienced a severe geomagnetic storm? Blackouts? Loss of communication networks? Satellite failure? In this episode of The PAM Talks, host Ciara Chisholm explores this question and more with guest mentor, Dr. Laura Mazzino, an assistant professor at the University of Calgary specializing in space physics. Dr. Mazzino shares her journey from humble beginnings in Argentina to her current role, an inspiring story of perseverance and determination. Through her expertise, she explains the potential impacts of geomagnetic storms on our technology, including disruptions to satellite communication and power grids. We learn about the interconnectedness of space weather and its effects on Earth, highlighting the importance of studying and understanding these phenomena. Host: Ciara Chisholm, Masters Student, University of Calgary Edited by: Anja Rabus, Masters Student, University of Calgary Produced by: Becky Booth, PhD Candidate, Astrophysics, University of Calgary The PAM Talks gratefully acknowledges support from the University of Calgary Graduate Student Association Quality Money grant program.
Apr 25, 2024
35 min
1.0.4 Paula Brandt - Exploring the Intersection of Physics and Medicine
In this episode of the PAM Talks, we explore the intersection of physics and medicine with Paula Brandt, a medical science PhD student. Paula’s groundbreaking research on protein misfolding in type two diabetes has the potential for revolutionizing treatment. Tune in to uncover the fascinating synergy between disciplines and the promise of personalized medicine in shaping the future of healthcare.
Apr 3, 2024
17 min
1.0.3 Jenny Lawson - Bridging Mathematical Theory and Reality (Pi day special)
Explore the world of mathematical modeling with Jenny Lawson, a PhD student at the University of Calgary, as she unravels the profound impact of math on real-world issues like fisheries sustainability. Join us as we celebrate Pi Day by delving into the beauty and significance of mathematics beyond textbooks and stereotypes.
Mar 14, 2024
14 min
1.0.2 Pragati Gupta - Building Powerful Computers with Quantum Mechanics
Quantum computing is a developing technology that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to make computers that will be able to rapidly solve some of the types of problems that are challenging for classical computers to solve efficiently. In this episode of the PAM Talks, our mentor, PhD student Pragati Gupta will tell us about her research in quantum computing.
Mar 1, 2024
18 min
1.0.1 Dr. Anna Ordog - Radio Astronomy and the Magnetic Field of the Milky Way
The Milky Way Galaxy, much like the Sun and Earth, possesses a magnetic field crucial for star formation and maintaining the Galactic disk’s structure. Despite its significance, the Galactic magnetic field remains poorly understood due to challenges in direct observation, as discussed by Dr. Anna Ordog in a radio astronomy-focused interview led by PhD student Pooja Woosaree on the PAM Talks podcast.
Feb 18, 2024
19 min