Jaco ter Hoeve

What are you working on?

My research covers various topics in particle physics phenomenology with a special focus on finding beyond the standard model physics using Machine Learning techniques. I use the Standard Model Effective Field Theory as a powerful framework to search for new physics in a model independent way. This comes with a huge and complicated parameter space in which new physics might hopefully be hiding!

What are you looking to get out of the DRSTP?

Besides making new friends, the DRSTP also provides the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow PhD students that work on topics in neighbouring fields. This helps me to keep seeing the bigger picture of what drives theoretical physics.

What interests do you have apart from you research?

In my free time I enjoy drawing and paining as well as playing sports.

Shradha Ramakrishnan

I am interested in..

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON?

I am part of the high energy group with interests in machine learning and quantum gravity. More specifically I am currently working on the Neural network/Quantum field theory (NN/QFT) correspondence with my supervisor Dr Ro Jefferson. This area studies how QFT, a theory with a rich background,, can be used to probe various aspects, such as criticality and the ‘edge of chaos’  in neural networks. 

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING TO GET OUT OF THE DRSTP?

The DRSTP is a great platform to meet physicists across the Netherlands and get a flavour for the research happening around you. I hope to attend more events, such as schools and conferences organized by the DRSTP

WHAT INTERESTS DO YOU HAVE APART FROM YOU RESEARCH?

I take an interest in various activities: I love music and play the piano. I celebrate my culture with Indian classical music and dance (Carnatic and Bharatanatyam). I also enjoy sports: I run and play football and boulder. Finally after a long day I also look forward to a cosy evening with a good book and some Chai.

Bart Zonneveld

I am interested in..

What are you working on?

I am developing new mathematical tools that we think are needed to combine the principles of Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity into a consistent theory of Quantum Gravity. To do this, I investigate various models in Random Geometry (random hyperbolic surfaces, random maps, random flat disks, etc.) and discover and prove their mathematical properties.

What are you looking to get out of the DRSTP?

I think the main role of the DRSTP is to create a community of theoretical physicists. My research being quite niche, the DRSTP can not so much support me topic-wise, but it does help me develop myself and make connections that are fruitful in a different way.

What interests do you have apart from your research?

I really like to teach. I get a lot of energy when I see that my students start to see the links between different subjects. In my free time, I am into politics and I like to go sailing.