Second Year, Second Term

The difficulty of the studies increased a lot in comparison to the previous terms. That is mainly due to the fact that the subjects covered in this trimester introduce completely new concepts for me. That means I am spending much more hours of studying in the library then before. It is good however, since the library here at ICL is actually quite comfortable place.

The beginning of the term is also one of the last chances to get the summer placement sorted out. I have to admit I was quite lucky this year. Thanks to very successful Czech scientist and former Imperial student, Katka Falk, who contacted me earlier last term, I applied to Los Alamos National Laboratory, New Mexico. Expecting absolutely no chance to succeed in an application for a place like this, I was really surprised, when I was told I will be welcomed to join. The research group initially wanted someone to stay at least for a year however and since I really want to complete at least my BSc first before taking such interruption, I could not agree with that condition. Despite this meant I could not be funded fully, the possibility of going to the states for the summer was still open.

LANL really is among the best places to work at in physics. Moreover, the field of hydrodynamic simulations for use with nuclear fusion research attempts to address a real global-challenge. No wonder I was so excited about that opportunity! I therefore asked Fulbright Foundation and KFF, whether they could support me. Although the firstly named was not able to consider my application due to strict rules on application process schedule, KFF accepted it and helped me to partly cover the travel, accommodation & living expenses.

I would therefore like to thank the Kellner Family Foundation for the support and also for the willingness to account for my request in such a nonstandard time.