

Fusion Focused
Ella Fox-Widdows
The Fusion Focused podcast aims to highlight inspiring experts within the Plasma Physics & Fusion Energy community, showcase the diverse careers available within the fusion field, talk with the guests about their scientific interests, and chat about why fusion is so cool!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 18, 2021 • 42min
S1 E7: Dr Kate Lancaster
In this episode of Fusion Focused, Ella Fox-Widdows is joined by Dr Kate Lancaster, a lecturer in the York Plasma Institute at the University of York. They chat about Kate’s research, laser plasmas, and feeling the fear and doing it anyway!
Connect with Fusion Focused on Instagram & Twitter, @fusionfocused
Music from Uppbeat:
https://uppbeat.io/t/pryces/music-is
License code: UKFIZQRLRSQAMP09

Oct 4, 2021 • 48min
S1 E6: Emre Yildirim
In this episode of Fusion Focused, Ella Fox-Widdows is joined by Emre Yildirim, a PhD student on the UK Fusion CDT programme at the University of Manchester, where they chat about Emre’s research into materials relevant for fusion machines, opportunities they've had to work with the Fusion Industry Association, and what a day in the life of a PhD student looks like!
Connect with Fusion Focused on Instagram & Twitter, @fusionfocused
Music from Uppbeat:
https://uppbeat.io/t/pryces/music-is
License code: UKFIZQRLRSQAMP09

Sep 20, 2021 • 26min
S1 E5: Dr Kirsty McKay
In this episode of Fusion Focused, Ella Fox-Widdows is joined by Dr Kirsty McKay, a lecturer at the University of Liverpool. Here you can listen to their conversation about Kirsty's research into atmospheric pressure plasmas, low temperature plasmas and how they are linked to fusion, Imposter Syndrome and the necessity for diversity within fusion, with a couple of contributions by George the Parrot!
Connect with Fusion Focused on Instagram & Twitter, @fusionfocused
Music from Uppbeat:
https://uppbeat.io/t/pryces/music-is
License code: UKFIZQRLRSQAMP09

Sep 6, 2021 • 26min
S1 E4: Laura Wheatley
In this episode of Fusion Focused, Ella Fox-Widdows is joined by Laura Wheatley, a PhD student on the UK Fusion CDT programme at the University of Oxford, where they talk about superconducting magnets, atom probe tomography, and why collaboration is so important for fusion research!
Connect with Fusion Focused on Instagram & Twitter, @fusionfocused
Music from Uppbeat:
https://uppbeat.io/t/pryces/music-is
License code: UKFIZQRLRSQAMP09

Aug 23, 2021 • 33min
S1 E3: Dr Alex Creely
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Alex Creely, Head of Physics-Engineering Integration at Commonwealth Fusion Systems and expert in plasma turbulence, shares his journey from Princeton to MIT and his passion for clean energy. He dives into the critical role of turbulence in fusion reactors and the innovative magnet technology advancements at his organization. Beyond work, Alex reveals his love for road biking, competitive racing, and even ballroom dancing, emphasizing the importance of community both in and out of the lab.

5 snips
Aug 9, 2021 • 23min
S1 E2: Dr Aneeqa Khan
Dr. Aneeqa Khan, a research fellow at the University of Manchester specializing in fusion applications, shares her surprising journey from geography to fusion research. She highlights the critical role of tungsten in tokamak systems and the challenges it faces under extreme conditions. Aneeqa recounts her enriching experiences at ITER and the Max Planck Institute, emphasizing collaboration in fusion research. She also discusses the importance of public engagement and education in inspiring future generations to explore the world of fusion technology.

7 snips
Jul 26, 2021 • 1h 16min
S1 E1: Dr Melanie Windridge
Dr. Melanie Windridge is a communications consultant at Tokamak Energy and a key advocate for women in fusion energy. She shares her journey into the fusion field, discussing her PhD research on plasma stability. The conversation dives into her adventures in the Arctic and her new initiative, Fusion Energy Insights, aimed at promoting the sector. Melanie also highlights the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and embracing failure as a catalyst for personal growth, urging more women to join the STEM fields.

Jul 19, 2021 • 2min
Fusion Focused S1: Trailer
Dive into the world of fusion energy with an enthusiastic PhD student as your guide. Discover the exciting careers of diverse professionals in the fusion field. Get ready for bi-weekly discussions packed with insights and inspiration. Engage with experts and learn about the future of energy! This journey is just beginning, and there's so much to explore.


