Summer Research Series: Bente Dalüge - Applied Physics

Applied Physics student Bente Dalüge is participating in the summer research programme at the Faculty of Science and Engineering. We recently met with Bente to ask about the programme and what she was investigating. 

Course: Applied Physics 

Supervisor: Associate Professor Ning Liu  

Name of Research Project/Activity: Nonlinear second harmonic generation using biocompatible microcrystal film. 

Why did you decide to study Applied Physics at UL?  

My name is Bente, and I grew up in Norway where I went to an international high school which allowed me to focus on physics, chemistry, and mathematics during my International Baccalaureate diploma. 

This allowed me to have a good foundation to attend any university abroad. I chose to come to UL as I wanted to experience the Irish culture and it seemed to have a welcoming community. I am now a second-year undergraduate student doing my degree in Applied Physics here at UL. I chose to study Applied Physics because I like learning and understanding how the world around me works. This course allows me to develop an understanding of the concepts of physics and apply this knowledge to solve problems in the real world.  

What motivated you to apply for the Summer Bursary Programme?  

I decided to apply for the Summer Bursary Programme as I thought it would be a great opportunity to gain research experience beneficial for my future career choices. As I have been considering a research career, I thought it would be a good opportunity to see what it is like. I wanted to do the Summer Bursary Programme with Associate Professor Ning Liu after she taught two of the first-year modules that I enjoyed, and I decided to learn more about her work which interested me.  

What are you doing as part of your research here at UL?  

I am learning how to grow gamma-glycine crystals in the lab with nonlinear optical properties, specifically to create a polycrystal film with a controlled thickness and properties suitable for optical measurements. I am also deepening my knowledge in optics, such as second harmonic generation and quasi-phase matching, by literature review. 

What skills have you developed over the summer?  

As part of my research project, I learned how to read relevant literature in order to gain a better understanding of the topics I'm researching. I also gained skills in the lab, where I prepared solutions for growing crystals and had to experiment with different methods to create the desired-size crystals and examine them under a microscope. I've also learned how to analyse and interpret my results in order to improve my methods and achieve better results. Other skills I have developed include laboratory organisation and planning, as well as personal time management 

What has this experience taught you and what would you recommend it to others?  

This experience has taught me to work more independently and in the lab as a group where things do not always go as planned. I would recommend this experience to others as I have enjoyed this early experience with research as an undergraduate student. 

What are your future career plans, would you consider a career in research?  

I am not 100% certain of my future career plans, but research is something that I am considering after doing this research project. This project has also allowed me to work with and speak to researchers within the group here in Bernal who are farther along in their careers about their experiences, making this an even more valuable experience.