Zachary Levy

Why FSU?

I chose to return to FSU as a graduate student after my research advisor offered me a project studying exactly what I wanted to study – thermonuclear supernovae from the lens of hydrodynamics simulations. 

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

By the end of my undergraduate physics degree at FSU, I realized there were too many fascinating open problems in astrophysics for me to spend only four years with the subject. I knew I wanted to spend time deciphering details of thermonuclear supernovae, and graduate school is the perfect environment to begin a career in this field.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

The explosion mechanisms of white dwarf stars leading to thermonuclear supernovae are still highly debated and considered a significant open question in astrophysics. My research aims to study how the nuclear burning and subsequent detonation of the white dwarf are impacted if the star is rapidly rotating as it explodes. This will be accomplished through three-dimensional hydrodynamics simulations of the star during burning and the subsequent detonation, which will allow us to generate synthetic signatures of the rotation which we can directly compare to observations of supernovae. The findings of this project will bolster our knowledge of supernovae and the physical processes critical for understanding them and will have implications for cosmology, which previously used thermonuclear supernovae to show the universe's expansion is accelerating.

Who has been influential in your graduate journey?

My research group's graduate students and PI have demonstrated what I can accomplish with the right mindset and focus and are certainly inspirations now and when I was an undergraduate. In addition, there are certain professors I interacted with during my undergraduate career, such as Dr. Hori, that helped me realize what I was capable of when applying dedicated effort and provided much appreciated guidance for all things graduate school.

Career aspirations

I aspire to continue working in academia as a postdoc and eventually a professor. I have also cherished my time teaching and being a professor would allow me to cultivate this passion alongside challenging myself with research.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Embrace the uncertainty and discomfort that comes with starting something new and difficult. There are growing pains associated with taking a leap like this, but remember each moment of uncertainty or doubt just represents your growth. If you are excited about graduate school, do not let self-doubt stop you!

Accomplishments during graduate career

I am proud to have applied for the NSF GRFP and received an honorable mention, as this took significant effort during a time when graduate classwork was accelerating. I am also honored to be a part of two published papers stemming from my research group, and to work closely with these brilliant scientists.

As a graduate student, I am honored to have been awarded the NSF GRFP honorable mention and the Jorge Piekarewicz graduate scholarship. As an undergraduate, I received the John D. Fox Award and the Anna Runyan Award.

Organizations you are part of at FSU

Graduate Assistants United, The Society Of Physics Students, The Future Physicist Society.

Hobbies outside academics

I enjoy reading, going on walks, cooking and spending quality time with my friends and family.