Having completed a MPhys in Physics at the University of Oxford and an MSc in Space Systems Engineering at the University of Southampton, I am currently reading for a DPhil in astrophysics focusing on modeling the gamma ray emission, particle acceleration and plasma dynamics and in relativistic jets that are emitted from the super massive black holes found at the centers of active galactic nuclei. Transient events in these jets may be the source of the highest energy gamma and cosmic ray observations that are observed here on Earth, however the exact mechanism of their acceleration and emission remains somewhat a mystery, and is my primary focus.
My primary research focus allows me to consider, study and identify a wide range of particle and plasma acceleration mechanisms, primarily found in the realm of high energy astrophysical and stellar events. These mechanisms may one day be adaptaded to advance space based propulsion systems, with the longterm aim to develop systems that enable fast, human exploration of the solar system and beyond.