Originally I was thinking to be an archaeologist, dusting the ground for ancient treasures! Only to find a love for science after entering university. In truth I think it was when we did an experiment on trash in my archaeology course, that was it for me; no more dreaming of grand adventures in a dashing tan-colored number! Luckily I found physics, and physicists, I found, were my people! No trash needed.
In my second year of university I discovered the joy of teaching and science communication. I was in the Sydney Morning Herald for teaching physics thanks to Phil Dooley from Phil Up On Science.
I love explaining science, and showing people that it’s for everyone, not just for stuffy scientists locked up in laboratories.
After doing an internship at the Australian National Science Technology Organization (ANSTO) in my third year of university I decided to do a masters degree in neutron scattering. The prospect of working with gigantic machinery totally lured me in.
I really came into my own during my Master degree. I won a full scholarship, and won awards for my research. I also did an independent research course during my degree which focused on science communication with Shane Hengst from the Physics Outreach department at the University of New South Wales .
This all lead me to being offered a PhD at one of the top universities in the world, ETH Zürich in Switzerland. I however developed some health issues, which where not supported by the university so I left to try at a different university. Unfortunately it was much the same. And I ended up getting sicker and having an emergency surgery. I have now quit my PhD and moved back to Australia, and I am recovering.
What I have learnt from this is listen to your body, and go for a work-life balance.
This blog has been part of my recovery, to get my mind working again, and rekindle my passion and love of science communication.
Now, two years later, I am studying marketing and communications at TAFE, and have just began a part-time job as an Operations Manager at the Australian Institute of Physics!
Nicole Reynolds 