Profile
Mark R Smith
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About Me:
I live in Wales and work throughout the UK and internationally.
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I played rugby union for 30 years, I refereed for 17 seasons, and I now coach and assess referees.
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My Work:
I am a Nuclear Physicist and Astrophysicist. I deal with some of the most majestic themes known to science. My research covers Thermonuclear Fusion and the workings of the Universe.
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A Nuclear Fusion Physicist and Astrophysicist dealing with some of the most majestic themes known to science. Among these are the evolution of the universe from the Big Bang to the present day; the origin and evolution of planets, stars, galaxies, and the elements themselves; the unity of basic physical law, and the connection between the subatomic properties of nature and the observed macroscopic universe.
My astrophysics research, and in particular solar physics is important to the development of Thermonuclear Fusion on Earth, because nuclear fusion is the process that powers the Sun and most other stars in the universe. Thermonuclear Fusion is being researched in order to produce clean, environmentally friendly power generation in the future, and thereby address the demand for energy requirements Worldwide.
Other research interests I am involved with include: Black Holes, Supermassive Black Holes, Gravitational Waves from merging Black Holes, Neutron stars, Hubble Constant, the Expanding Universe, Dark Energy and Dark Matter.
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My Typical Day:
Conduct research and liaise with Engineers to produce new forms of equipment and new techniques for nuclear systems, such as those found in power plants and research establishments.
Perform work for regulatory bodies for the purpose of developing rules, regulations, policies and procedures pertaining to safe levels of nuclear exposure or astronomical equipment.
Be involved in testing or auditing the safety procedures of an industry or research facility.
Publish studies in academic journals if working in the research or academic field.
Develop mathematical equations to represent the actions of the physical World.
Be involved in developing computer programs related to equations within physics.
Collaborate with fellow scientists from different research facilities in the UK and around the World.
Delivering lectures to undergraduates, postgraduates, professional colleagues and the public.
Answering questions from the scientific community and public regarding my research.
Put forward proposals for future experimental/theoretical project funding.
Any of the above can be performed on any day of the week (no two days are the same).
Working 38 hours per five day week, but a lot of scientists in research do more in order to complete theoretical studies or conclude experimental runs.
Do not forget to allow time to relax and socialise, it is very important to switch off from science from time to time and indulge in hobbies/interests.
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What I'd do with the prize money:
Some form of STEM equipment for students to be engaged with during presentations on Astronomy/Astrophysics and/or Thermonuclear Fusion Physics.
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Education:
Secondary School, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire College
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Qualifications:
CSE’s in: Mathematics – Physics – English – Woodwork – History.
Ordinary National Certificate (ONC) Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
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Work History:
Nuclear Physicist/Astrophysicist/Academic/Consultant: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)/University of Oxford/United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).
University of Oxford ·
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Current Job:
Theoretical Physicist (Nuclear Fusion Physics & Astrophysics)/Academic.Semi Retired.Nuclear Physicist/Astrophysicist/Academic/Consultant: IAEA/University of Oxford/UKAEA. -
Employer:
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).University of Oxford.UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA). -
My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Enthusiastic, Approachable, Empathetic.
What did you want to be after you left school?
A Physicist
Were you ever in trouble at school?
No
If you weren't doing this job, what would you choose instead?
Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer
Who is your favourite singer or band?
Tina Turner
What's your favourite food?
Lasagne
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
Make World breaking scientific discovery - World Cruise - Own a vintage Jaguar
Tell us a joke.
Why can't you trust an Atom? Because they make up everything
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