Recipients of the New Zealand Space Scholarship, Grace Jacobs Corban and Faun Watson, will undertake their internships in June. This unique opportunity will provide the students with practical experience in their areas of interest, at an agency considered the world leader in space science.
Fresh from completing a Master of Science in Society, Grace will be working with NASA’s Exoplanet Exploration Program at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, helping to develop science education material.
“I’m super excited, and I still can’t quite believe it,” says Grace. “I hope to learn a bit more about the interface between science communication and education, in my mind these two areas are deeply connected. This is the type of insight that I will be able to bring into my work and study afterwards.”
During her study at the University, Grace has explored ways to make science and maths engaging, especially for those who struggle in these subjects.
“My project during the internship will involve adapting science communication resources to fit with the school curriculum. I am really excited to work with NASA science communication material, as NASA inspires so many people with its outreach.”
Faun will intern at the Aerothermodynamics Branch at NASA’s Ames Research Centre, which conducts research in astrobiology, robotics, and advanced computing, to support space exploration and aeronautics.
“It feels like a dream come true. The opportunity to work alongside some of the biggest minds in the field represents validation of the dedication to science I have developed in my time at university. This internship represents a chance to grow my knowledge and lend this knowledge to New Zealand’s growing space sector.”
Faun's physics PhD focused on developing deorbiting solutions, which safely disposes of spacecraft or satellites after their missions. This approach addresses the space debris issue by enabling sustainable launches.
“At NASA I will be focusing on combining existing state-of-the-art simulation tools, and comparing these to results from the low-density shock tube at Ames. I’m excited to learn to use a new set of modelling tool and expand my knowledge of my own field in new directions.”
Both Grace and Faun attribute their success to the opportunities to explore diverse scientific fields during their academic studies. The freedom to focus on their research interests, supported by supervisors and professors, has left them feeling confident and prepared for their next endeavor.
“Studying with the School of Science in Society has helped me to discover and pursue my research interests. I am also very grateful for my supervisors and lecturer who have been incredibly supportive,” says Grace.
Faun echoes a similar sentiment. “I have consistently been presented with opportunities from science clubs to internships with research institutes. The academic research experience from these opportunities, on top of the work that went into my degree, allows me to feel confident in my ability to adapt to a range of research challenges.”
Provost Professor Bryony James congratulates the two students on their success.
“It’s wonderful to see any of our students succeed but to see Faun and Grace shoot for the moon and land amongst the stars is another layer of celebration. I can’t wait to hear their stories of NASA when they return from their internships.”