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How can we become an Astro Chemist?
How can we become an astro chemist ?
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Alexandra McCoy
Site Reliability Engineer - SaaS Reliability Enablement
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Alexandra’s Answer
I actually had no idea that this was a thing lol However, a few minutes of browsing and it seems they have something called ACS which is the world's largest program connecting people in science. Within it there is a page that provides more information regarding astro chemistry specifically (https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/careers/chemical-sciences/fields/astrochemistry.html). It sounds extremely interesting and I hope you take a look and identify a method for you to maybe join the community and find a mentor. However, on the above page there is a "getting started section":
Candidates for a career in astrochemistry must have:
A solid background in chemistry (or a related scientific field) and an understanding of astronomical data collection and analysis methods
Understanding of astronomical concepts, including the behavior of light over long distances and the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter
Understanding of theoretical principles, including kinetics, thermodynamics, and quantum chemistry
Familiarity with computer modeling and statistical analysis methods
Candidates for a career in astrochemistry must have:
A solid background in chemistry (or a related scientific field) and an understanding of astronomical data collection and analysis methods
Understanding of astronomical concepts, including the behavior of light over long distances and the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter
Understanding of theoretical principles, including kinetics, thermodynamics, and quantum chemistry
Familiarity with computer modeling and statistical analysis methods
Updated
Arfon’s Answer
I can share my journey to gaining a PhD in Astrochemsitry:
- BSc/Undergraduate in Chemistry (where I did a lot of first year astronomy modules too).
- PhD in Astrochemistry.
I realize that seems a little 'glib'/short, but essentially in my undergraduate studies (at the University of Sheffield) I took lots of optional modules in astronomy. After completing my undergraduate studies, I knew I wanted to pursue more of the 'astro' than the 'chemistry' and was lucky to find that there were PhD positions being advertised at the University of Nottingham.
One thing it would be good to get familiar with is the different topics/subject areas that people are working on in academia today. A potential source of this information is the arXiv where researchers publish their work (e.g., https://arxiv.org/search/?query=astrochemistry&searchtype=all&abstracts=show&order=-announced_date_first&size=50). Browsing some of these titles, and perhaps more importantly, looking at the different institutions (e.g., universities, research labs) can give you an idea of the sorts of places where astrochemical research is happening *today*.
Hopefully that helps!
- BSc/Undergraduate in Chemistry (where I did a lot of first year astronomy modules too).
- PhD in Astrochemistry.
I realize that seems a little 'glib'/short, but essentially in my undergraduate studies (at the University of Sheffield) I took lots of optional modules in astronomy. After completing my undergraduate studies, I knew I wanted to pursue more of the 'astro' than the 'chemistry' and was lucky to find that there were PhD positions being advertised at the University of Nottingham.
One thing it would be good to get familiar with is the different topics/subject areas that people are working on in academia today. A potential source of this information is the arXiv where researchers publish their work (e.g., https://arxiv.org/search/?query=astrochemistry&searchtype=all&abstracts=show&order=-announced_date_first&size=50). Browsing some of these titles, and perhaps more importantly, looking at the different institutions (e.g., universities, research labs) can give you an idea of the sorts of places where astrochemical research is happening *today*.
Hopefully that helps!
Updated
Brook’s Answer
You can also consider Astrobiology as many of the aspects involved in astrobiology (the study of the origin and detection of life off Earth) are fundamentally rooted in chemistry. The University of Washington (along with many other schools) has a great Astrobiology Program where you can get dual PhDs in a science or math program (e.g., chemistry, genome sciences, math, astronomy, geology) and a PhD in Astrobiology by taking additional courses.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hi there, Vedant!
If you're dreaming about becoming an astrochemist, you're in for an exciting journey! Astrochemistry is a fascinating field that combines chemistry, astronomy, and astrophysics to explore the chemical makeup and processes of the universe. Here's how you can turn your dream into reality:
1. Build a Solid Educational Base:
Start with a Bachelor’s Degree: Kickstart your journey with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, astronomy, or a similar field. This will give you a strong base in the essential sciences.
Go for Advanced Studies: Think about getting a master’s degree or Ph.D. in astrochemistry, physical chemistry, or a related field. This will deepen your knowledge and offer plenty of research opportunities in astrochemistry.
2. Dive into Research:
Look for Research Opportunities: Find research opportunities in astrochemistry or similar fields. This could be internships, research assistantships, or team projects with professors.
Publish Your Research: Strive to get your research papers published in peer-reviewed journals. This will showcase your expertise and contribute to the field.
3. Specialize in Astrochemistry:
Concentrate on Astrochemical Research: Pick a specialization like interstellar medium, star formation, planetary atmospheres, or extraterrestrial materials.
Team Up with Experts: Work with experts in astrochemistry to gain practical experience and insights.
4. Stay Current and Active:
Join Conferences and Workshops: Attend conferences and workshops in astrochemistry to keep up with the latest developments.
Network with Professionals: Connect with professionals and researchers in astrochemistry to build a strong network within the scientific community.
5. Think About Postdoctoral Research or Fellowships:
Go for Postdoctoral Positions: Look into postdoctoral research positions or fellowships that focus on astrochemical studies.
Seek International Collaborations: Look for opportunities to collaborate internationally and participate in astrochemistry research initiatives.
6. Look for Career Opportunities:
In Academic Institutions: Consider a career in academic institutions as a professor or researcher specializing in astrochemistry.
In Research Organizations: Look for roles in research organizations, observatories, space agencies, or companies involved in space exploration and research.
For further reading, check out these authoritative references:
“Astrochemistry: From Astronomy to Astrobiology” by Andrew M. Shaw
“Astrochemistry and Astrobiology” by Ian W. M. Smith
“The Astrophysical Journal” published by the American Astronomical Society
This roadmap should give you a clear idea of how to become an astrochemist, highlighting the importance of education, research experience, specialization, networking, and career opportunities in the field of astrochemistry.
May your journey be blessed with success and fulfillment, as only the divine can bestow. Keep reaching for the stars, Vedant!
Best Wishes,
James.
If you're dreaming about becoming an astrochemist, you're in for an exciting journey! Astrochemistry is a fascinating field that combines chemistry, astronomy, and astrophysics to explore the chemical makeup and processes of the universe. Here's how you can turn your dream into reality:
1. Build a Solid Educational Base:
Start with a Bachelor’s Degree: Kickstart your journey with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, astronomy, or a similar field. This will give you a strong base in the essential sciences.
Go for Advanced Studies: Think about getting a master’s degree or Ph.D. in astrochemistry, physical chemistry, or a related field. This will deepen your knowledge and offer plenty of research opportunities in astrochemistry.
2. Dive into Research:
Look for Research Opportunities: Find research opportunities in astrochemistry or similar fields. This could be internships, research assistantships, or team projects with professors.
Publish Your Research: Strive to get your research papers published in peer-reviewed journals. This will showcase your expertise and contribute to the field.
3. Specialize in Astrochemistry:
Concentrate on Astrochemical Research: Pick a specialization like interstellar medium, star formation, planetary atmospheres, or extraterrestrial materials.
Team Up with Experts: Work with experts in astrochemistry to gain practical experience and insights.
4. Stay Current and Active:
Join Conferences and Workshops: Attend conferences and workshops in astrochemistry to keep up with the latest developments.
Network with Professionals: Connect with professionals and researchers in astrochemistry to build a strong network within the scientific community.
5. Think About Postdoctoral Research or Fellowships:
Go for Postdoctoral Positions: Look into postdoctoral research positions or fellowships that focus on astrochemical studies.
Seek International Collaborations: Look for opportunities to collaborate internationally and participate in astrochemistry research initiatives.
6. Look for Career Opportunities:
In Academic Institutions: Consider a career in academic institutions as a professor or researcher specializing in astrochemistry.
In Research Organizations: Look for roles in research organizations, observatories, space agencies, or companies involved in space exploration and research.
For further reading, check out these authoritative references:
“Astrochemistry: From Astronomy to Astrobiology” by Andrew M. Shaw
“Astrochemistry and Astrobiology” by Ian W. M. Smith
“The Astrophysical Journal” published by the American Astronomical Society
This roadmap should give you a clear idea of how to become an astrochemist, highlighting the importance of education, research experience, specialization, networking, and career opportunities in the field of astrochemistry.
May your journey be blessed with success and fulfillment, as only the divine can bestow. Keep reaching for the stars, Vedant!
Best Wishes,
James.