Research Ambassadors
Erica Sundermeyer ‘26
Email me at: esunderm@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
- Physical sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
- BS in Physics and Astronomy
- Minor in Mathematics
- Minor in Spanish
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
- University of Rochester, Department of Physics and Astronomy (fall 2024-present)
- Advisor: Dr. Dominique Segura-Cox
- Observational/radio astronomy. Studying early stages of star formation
- Louisiana State University Physics and Astronomy REU (summer 2024)
- Advisor: Professor Gabriela Gonzalez
- Experimental gravity/general relativity (worked on noise analysis for gravitational wave detectors)
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Helping students write strong applications for research programs/grants/fellowships
- Advice on finding research within one's own department as well as through outside programs, and what to look for in a mentor
- Advice or practice communicating research effectively, whether that be writing an abstract, putting together a poster, or honing presentation skills
- Talking to parents/families who are interested in helping their student find research, and who want to know that their student will be supported
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don't be afraid to pursue what you're interested in! It's worth taking time to find a research group doing work that interests and excites you. And, when you discover a research field that you're excited about, reach out to faculty! People love to share what they do, and sending cold emails is a valuable skill. In general, you never know what doors you're opening by just exploring what you love.