We work among extraordinary people doing extraordinary things; get to know some of them by reading these quick-fire interviews.
Name: Dr Tristram Warren
Job title: Head of Infrared Multilayer Laboratory
What are you currently working on?
My time is split between leading the Infrared Multilayer Laboratory (IML) and conducting research into thermal infrared observations of planetary surfaces.
The IML develops specialist optical coatings and filters for scientific instruments, particularly those used in space missions. These components are critical to allowing instruments to measure specific wavelengths of light, helping scientists understand everything from the Earth's environment to the surfaces of other worlds.
Alongside this, my research focuses on understanding how planetary surfaces heat up and cool down, and what their thermal behaviour can tell us about their physical properties. I've also been involved in developing instrumentation for lunar exploration, so my work spans everything from understanding the science we want to do to helping build the hardware needed to do it.
Describe a typical day
I am not sure there is such a thing as a typical day! My role combines research, technical problem-solving, project management and running a laboratory, so the balance changes constantly.
I might start the day discussing the progress of an optical coating project, move on to troubleshooting an issue with a space instrument, review results from the lab, and then find some time to work on my own research. There is also a fair amount of planning, supporting colleagues and keeping projects moving.
One of the things I enjoy about the job is the variety, although finding uninterrupted time to concentrate on a scientific problem can sometimes be a challenge!
What got you into physics?
I made some bad life choices somewhere along the way! I had a few good physics teachers at school, so I suppose they must take some of the blame. ;) I am fairly dyslexic, so English was never my strongest subject at school, and with both my parents being scientists by training, I suppose I was always likely to end up doing something scientific. I actually studied electrical engineering as an undergraduate, but found it wasn't quite as interesting as I had hoped. So, somewhat on a whim, I searched "PhDs in planetary physics", and a position at Oxford was one of the top results. I applied, got the place, and after finishing my PhD I stayed on. I have been here ever since!
If you had an entire day at your disposal (not at work/studying), what would be your ideal way to spend it?
Playing golf.
What is your favourite place in Oxford?
The Standard, the Indian restaurant on Walton Street. A good curry is hard to beat!
Plan B: what would you be if you weren’t doing the job you are currently doing?
I think you have misunderstood. Plan A was always just to play golf. Physics is already Plan B.