Page 22 - Careers in Mathematics

So, what does a career in this field look like and how do I spend a
typical day? The quest of an Astronomer is to deepen our
understanding of the universe, the space beyond our world. Much
of what we do is data-driven, and I investigate techniques to
analyse terabytes of data using Artificial Intelligence and
statistical methods. Sometimes referred to as “blue skies science”
and, contrary to the picture Hollywood paints of space
exploration, we do not often stumble upon discoveries like aliens
or life on other planets. Instead, we improve our understanding of
the universe. Astronomy is a field that has driven innovation –
space travel being a primary example of this. CCDs in cameras, x-
ray scanners at airports and GPS technology wouldn't have
happened without astronomy.
South Africa has a significant competitive advantage when it
comes to Astronomy. Our dark skies, wide-open spaces, and areas
where a lack of radio interference is protected by law, provide
ideal conditions for both SKA and MeerKAT. The MeerKAT radio
telescope, situated 90 km outside the small Northern Cape town
of Carnarvon, is a precursor to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA)
telescope and will be integrated into the mid-frequency
component of SKA Phase 1. MeerKAT has been designed,
engineered and built in South Africa to be at the cutting edge of
the advancement of the human species. Much of the work that I
do entails working with data obtained from MeerKAT, and I am
excited to be part of an incredible and ambitious international
project.
A typical day will involve working on programming and scientific
investigation. I have, in collaboration with colleagues, developed
an algorithm that quickly detects anomalies in vast sets of data.
Astronomy is a collaborative field, so I attend regular meetings
and work with colleagues all around the world. I am also involved
20
in writing journal articles, reading papers, and giving or attending
presentations. I have attended conferences or been on research
visits to New York, London, Paris, Sydney, and Geneva.
If you are considering a career in this field, I can assure you that it
is a great area to work in. Ideally, it would be best if you have a
passion for Mathematics and Science, enjoy problem-solving and
be curious. South Africa’s government is investing in Astronomy,
and our involvement in MeerKAT and SKA have resulted in growing
interest and opportunities for Astronomers. No day is the same
for me, and I am empowered to pursue aspects of research that
are of interest to me.
There is a misconception that careers in the sciences do not pay –
I can assure you, however, that anyone graduating with a BSc in
Physics will have many career options to choose from, Astronomy
being but one of those. If you can learn to program (look on the
internet, there are lots of resources to teach yourself and it is
enjoyable), can think and question or analyse large sets of data,
you will have fun and, probably be employable.
Work-life balance is essential to me, so I do not spend all day in
front of a computer screen. I play the piano and enjoy socialising
– gaming is also a hobby (more screentime). In 2017 I founded the
Supernova Foundation – an international mentoring programme
for women in Physics. Today we have around 70 mentors who
work with more than 180 mentees in different countries. We
connect senior women in Physics with women students for
personal mentoring, run quarterly webinars, and help our
mentees with everything from selecting PhD research topics to
career options and dealing with issues in the workplace.
21