As part of my PhD (2012-16), James studied galaxy formation and evolution using the DES science verification data. In particular, he investigated the environmental dependence of the galaxy stellar mass function. Measuring galaxy environment with the DES photometry was challenging but possible because of the large number of galaxies in the sample (~3.2 million after cuts).
Currently he is still working at the ICG in Portsmouth on a completely different research project. Working in collaboration with one of the big six energy suppliers in the UK, he has been investigating trends in smart meter data and has written codes to detect anomalous electricity usage.
We asked James a few more questions — here’s what he had to say:
What is your favorite part about being a scientist?
My favourite part of being a scientist is working on challenging and interesting problems. I also like working with new data that has the power to give new insights into the galaxy population and how it evolves.
When did you know you wanted to be a scientist?
When I was at school I enjoyed studying Mathematics and Physics. This combined with a curiosity about the Universe and how it worked lead me to want to be a scientist. So I think I first wanted to be a scientist when I was studying my A-levels. However it wasn’t until I was 30 that I decided to come back to University to do my PhD in astrophysics!
Do you have any hobbies or play any sports?
I enjoy swimming and playing water polo.
Any advice for aspiring scientists?
Work hard and work smart!
