Moira's Project Page

Who:  I was born and raised here in Salt Lake City, and chose to come to the U for the amazing research opportunities, and also to make friends in the ACCESS cohort. In my free time, I love to draw, and research/read about interesting topics!

My scientific interests:  Over recent years, I’ve developed a fascination with mathematics and physics, specifically quantum computing. The idea of a computer not tethered by the classical binary system, and the physical science behind actualizing this, is captivating to me.

Academic goals:  I am a math and physics double major, and I plan to continue immersing myself in the world of scientific research through my lab work. After graduation, I plan on pursuing a PhD in an area of physics.

Career goals:  One day, I would love to be a full time researcher and professor, to contribute to the world’s scientific understanding, as well as enhancing my own understanding. I’d love to be on the frontline of scientific developments, and I can’t wait to see where my career path leads.

Our group studies matter at high pressures to explore changes in the structural and electronic properties of materials. In particular, we are seeking paths to find superconductivity close to ambient conditions. We utilize Diamond Anvil Cell (DAC) technology to manipulate the pressure of a sample and then use X-Ray Diffraction (XRD)  to understand how the crystal structure of materials changes under compression and search for potential phase transitions. We also measure the electronic properties of samples. Preliminary results that we recently obtained in pressure-induced superconductivity of BaSbTe2.1S0.9 crystals that show charge density wave at ambient pressure appear to support the theory that CDW and superconductivity are competitive states within this class of materials.