Robert Howey, Senior, Physics, 2022

Research Program: MURPPS
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Dong Yu
Research Title: Simulation of Helicity Dependent Photocurrents
Hometown: Sunnyvale, CA
Three words to describe me: Dedicated, involved, studious

What are your future plans and/or goals?

My goal is to obtain my PhD in Physics and continue research in academia.

In what ways has engaging in undergraduate research impacted your future goals and plans?

My participation in undergraduate research has given me important connections with faculty and graduate students who were willing to guide me on my academic journey. It has also helped to give me the experience and resolve necessary to succeed in my goals.

What contribution(s) will your research make to your field of study?

My simulations of helicity dependent photocurrents have helped the group gain a better understanding of the behavior of light incident on a given sample. This includes how the intensity of light transmitted into a sample depends on the angle of the polarizer the light passes through before entering the given sample.

What preparation and research experience did you have before applying to your research program?

Before my current group, I was involved with the Nuclear Physics Group in my junior year.

What advice do you have for other undergraduate students seeking research experiences?

Most professors will understand that many undergraduates will not have an extensive background in research before joining their group, so do not hesitate to express interest in the research a professor is doing.