Unstable Fluid Podcast

Join Meagan Hough, a final-year PhD student in quantum physics, as she dives into her captivating journey in academia and the significance of accommodating neurodivergent scientists. Meagan shares insights on her groundbreaking research in quantum memories, demystifying complex concepts like decoherence and fidelity. She humorously critiques the misuse of 'quantum' in pop culture and discusses the importance of effective science communication, drawing from her recent article in Physics World. Tune in for insights and laughs!

Dive into the strange world of viscosity and discover how fluids, including those in space, can behave unpredictably. The hosts unravel the concept of modeling space as a viscous fluid and explore when viscosity matters in astrophysics. From discussing superfluids to the magic of accretion discs, they highlight how viscosity influences gas behavior around stars and black holes. Plus, get ready for some fun with non-Newtonian fluids and the idea of ‘space toothpaste.’ Light banter about personal interests keeps the mood entertaining!

Thomas and Kat tackle the complexities of managing time and mental health as academics. They share personal stories about stress, proofreading mishaps, and the repercussions of conference fatigue. The conversation dives into Spoon Theory, ideal for visualizing mental energy and preventing burnout. They discuss finding balance in PhD life, the importance of community outside academia, and the benefits of hobbies. With practical tips on structuring meetings and project planning, they equip listeners to navigate the academic landscape with greater ease.

Thomas and Kat explore why many celestial objects appear flat, diving into the fascinating world of angular momentum. They discuss how collapsing gas clouds form flat discs, revealing the mechanics behind planetary rings and the intricate dance of moons. The duo also touches on the color intricacies of astronomical images and the surprising true colors of Uranus and Neptune. Plus, they use fun analogies, from figure skating to aerial arts, to explain complex concepts. Join them for a journey through the cosmos!

Thomas and Kat dive into the art of networking for early career researchers. They explore the value of seminars as low-pressure opportunities for connection. Insights on leveraging supervisors and sociable peers to expand your network make for practical advice. Learn how to transform cold emails into warm introductions and coordinate with colleagues before conferences. The duo emphasizes the role of designated extroverts in easing the networking process, ensuring that even the shyest can find their footing in academia.

Join in as Thomas and Kat dive into the fascinating world of density and diffusion, exploring how these concepts apply not just to liquids, but also to the cosmos! They unravel the mysteries of shock waves in space, and recount historical tales from Aristotle and Archimedes that highlight the evolution of our understanding of density. Everyday examples, like why icebergs float or how milk disperses in tea, make complex science relatable. Plus, there’s an entertaining breakdown of lunar events like supermoons and eclipses!

Thomas and Kat are back and diving into their academic adventures! Kat shares her journey after returning from the US, revealing she passed her PhD viva with minor corrections, sparking celebrations. Thomas recounts his experiences at a conference in Vienna and the nuances of networking. They explore the perks of research trips, discuss travel logistics, and highlight the balance of funding and well-being in academia. Their conversation is a blend of personal triumphs and insightful career tips, making academic life feel engaging and relatable!

Kat and Thomas dive into the challenges of academic writing, especially for STEM students. They offer tips for structuring papers and reading academic articles efficiently. Discussion includes the nuances of thesis writing and the importance of early broad reading during PhDs. A light-hearted debate transitions to what truly qualifies as a fluid, questioning if mayonnaise can be classified as such. The conversation rounds off with thoughts on the nature of glass and its flow, making for a fun blend of academia and curiosity.

Join Thomas and Kat as they dive into the highs and lows of applying for PhDs, including tips on interviews and the importance of research experience. Discover the nuances of different paths into doctoral programs, and why industry experience can be a game changer. They also explore the physics of fluids—ram pressure and drag—discussing its fascinating implications from tiny droplets to galaxies. Plus, learn how non-dimensionalization connects these concepts across scales. A blend of academia and real-world physics awaits you!

Thomas and Kat dive into the world of academia, sharing their journey through PhD life and the bittersweet chaos of university bureaucracy. They discuss the critical role of coding in research, debating the merits of languages like Python and MATLAB. The contrast between scientific computing and computer science sparks intriguing insights. Plus, they tackle the month's problem: calculating Earth's average surface temperature, exploring climate modeling along the way. Catch their reflections on networking, community feedback, and the ongoing evolution of research.