Currently Kerstin’s main research interest is the clustering of galaxy clusters – the largest gravitationally bound structures in the universe. Previously she has been working on leveraging the gravitational lenses effect of large galaxy clusters as natural telescopes to find distant supernova Ia.
We asked Kerstin a few more questions — here’s what she had to say:
What is your favorite part about being a scientist?
Working with inspiring people on interesting problems. And that there always is something new to learn.
When did you know you wanted to be a scientist?
Last two years of high school, greatly influenced by a great physics teacher that turned high school physics classes into something that was very close to freshmen physics.
What is your favorite space-related image, and why?
The Hubble Deep Field and Ultra Deep Field images because they illustrate the mind blowing number of very distant galaxies that are out there. It shows that a really small patch of the sky that looks pretty much empty to smaller telescopes contains thousands of galaxies if you look deep enough.
What is your favorite book, movie, and/or TV show?
Difficult to pick a favorite book, Matt Ruff’s ‘Set This House in Order’ (as well as most of his other books) and Paco Ignacio Taibo II’s ‘Four Hands’ are definitely among the front runners. TV show: Babylon 5 – it took serial TV shows to a different level and still hasn’t found a match when it comes to details and writing – it’s at its best when viewed the second time around.
Any advice for aspiring scientists?
Be passionate about the science (or anything else) you do and find people who share your passion and fuel your enthusiasm.
