October 4, 2005 Source: St. Mary's University:
http://www.smu.ca/newsreleases/2005/04-04-04-2005.html Student crashes electrons and positrons at Stanford University A student enrolled in the Astronomy and Physics program at Saint Mary’s University had the unique opportunity to share her research with other leading scientists from around the world at California’s Stanford University. Claire Cohalan, a third year student, was invited to make a visit to one of the world’s most prestigious universities and present research that she’s been conducting in the field of high energy physics. "My visit to Stanford University was truly a wonderful experience, and one which I soon won’t forget," smiles Cohalan during an interview on campus. "I found it really neat to share my research with academics, like professors and graduate students from around the globe, and also realize the potential impact my research may have in the area of high energy physics," she says. With major support from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada, the Montreal native conducted research at McGill University this summer. It was there where she spent her time looking at the results one receives while crashing electrons and positrons together at high energy levels. More specifically, her research focused on the data that evolved from this project. After hearing about the top-notch faculty and the dynamic Astronomy and Physics Program at Saint Mary’s, she felt a move here would be certainly worth her while. "I have only heard great things about Saint Mary’s, and that’s why I decided to come here and complete my degree, majoring in Astronomy and Physics," she says. "The faculty and staff in the Department are terrific and are helpful, as well I also enjoy conducting work at the Burke Gaffney Observatory, which is the only one of its kind in all of Atlantic Canada." She says she enjoyed being an ambassador for Saint Mary’s University while at Stanford from September 27 to October 1. Other academics who were invited to this world-renowned university last week also specialize in the same area of research that Cohalan has been involved in. "I was glad to represent Saint Mary’s," she says. "I felt like I was there, making a real difference for the University and had the chance to prove to other academics from around the world that we are a leading institution when it comes to science research - more specifically a leader in astronomy and physics." She plans to continue research involving electrons and positrons during her time at Saint Mary’s. She also aspires to someday earn her Master of Applied Science Degree and then her PhD, both of course in Astronomy and Physics. Saint Mary's University is known for its community outreach projects, both in Canada and around the world. Saint Mary's, founded in 1802, is home to one of Canada's leading business schools, a Science Faculty widely known for its cutting-edge research, a comprehensive and innovative Arts Faculty and a vibrant Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research. -30- For More Information: Paul Fitzgerald
Public Affairs Officer
Saint Mary's University, Public Affairs
(902) 420.5514
E-mail: paul.fitzgerald@smu.ca
www.smu.ca
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