Research Ambassadors
Julia Largett ‘26
Email me at: jlargett@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
- Physical sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
- BS in Physics and Astronomy
- BA in Philosophy
- Minor in Mathematics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Currently, I conduct research in astrophysics and the philosophy of science at the University of Rochester, spanning galaxy classification using machine learning (with Dr. Segev BenZvi and Dr. Kelly Douglass) and theoretical equivalence in physical theories (with Dr. Zeynep Soysal).
Past work includes solar physics instrumentation at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center / UAH NSF Heliophysics REU (with Dr. Amy Winebarger) and environmental engineering at Clarkson University NSF Aquatic Science REU (with Dr. Yang Yang).
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I can offer valuable guidance for REU applications, having completed two myself (at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and Clarkson University). I can help students identify programs, craft strong essays, and prepare for interviews. I’m also happy to give tours of my lab or department, arrange visits to the Mees Observatory, and help students build their professional network by connecting them with mentors and researchers I’ve worked with at Rochester and through past programs.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
I’d tell new researchers not to be afraid to pursue exactly what excites them, and not to worry if their interests change along the way. At the same time, avoid spreading yourself too thin. Always take a moment to ask yourself how each opportunity benefits you and why you want to pursue it. That self-awareness will help you make choices that are both meaningful and sustainable.