Joshua Giblin-Burnham
Theoretical Physics (MSci),
Interdisciplinary Bioscience PhD Student,
University of Oxford.
Hi, I'm Josh
I am studying for a Biophysics PhD at the University of Oxford; however, I want to supplement my studies with greater experience to cultivate my skills. I was drawn to physics because I did not just want to think outside the box, but I wanted to solve the Schrodinger equation of light trapped inside the box; it is this tenacity and assiduity that I have applied to my work to exceed expectations. I am diligent and meticulous, with a methodical approach to work and an aptitude to learn new skills quickly. I have a multifaceted skill range, from excellent interpersonal skills to advanced mathematical knowledge and, diverse interests in education, mathematics, sciences, coding, and technology.
Skills and Traits
About Me
From a young age, I have always enjoyed cooking. This prompted my earliest scientific discovery, as I often wondered what caused cakes to rise. Intrigued by the physical processes involved, my passion for science was kindled. Now that I am both a DPhil student and keen cook, I can only see this as a prophetic moment in my childhood. But one thing is clear, to me at least: it was these sorts of innocuous discoveries that there was a more profound explanation for mundane processes that instilled my curious, questioning perception of the world. From then on, I could often be found deconstructing toys, devising juvenile experiments, and irritating anyone who would listen with nonstop questions (and with 4 siblings there was always someone to listen!). Physics grants us a broader view of our universe and how it works; through experimentation, observation, and mathematics, we derive comprehensive answers to our most incomprehensible questions. This realisation that Physics could sate my natural curiosity developed into my passion for the subject.
And now that I am studying for a DPhil, I have the same curiosity and desire for answers, but only the questions have changed. Through my master’s work and within my degree, I developed interdisciplinary interests in theoretical physics and computational techniques applied to biological/soft matter. I have become intrigued by research into the mechanics and dynamics of biological molecules, as well as by emergent phenomena in biology. For example, I am fascinated by the shapes and morphologies in biology. It’s remarkable how the underlying physics of biological processes can control such complex dynamics and how computational efforts can elucidate these mechanisms.
My inquisitive nature has deepened my love of physics throughout my life; from deconstructing electronics at eight years old to university Physics, I am fascinated by uncovering my next challenge.