Ashlyn Burch to study at the European Organization of Nuclear Research

2014 Apr 25

Junior Ashlyn Burch's life has been quite an adventure. Growing up in Russia with her missionary parents gave her a strong appreciation of culture and education.

"When I moved back to the U.S. and started high school, I became interested in the physical sciences," said Burch, who is from Loganville. "I found the perfect fit with physics because I love solving mathematical problems and learning about the makeup of the universe."

The physics major now has the opportunity of a lifetime to study alongside some of the leaders in the field of high-energy particle physics at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, in Switzerland. She was accepted into a National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program.

"CERN is the largest and one of the only grand-scale research facilities for particle physics in the world," said Burch. "I look forward to working with these influential researchers and broadening my network."

REU programs support active research by undergraduate students in any of the areas of research funded by the NSF. REU projects involve students in ongoing research programs or in research projects specifically designed for the program.

"Ashlyn was one of only 12 students nationwide accepted into a summer Research Experience for Undergraduates program through Duke University," said Dr. Ralph France, professor of physics. "Only four of those 12 students will be traveling to CERN for research. Entrance into any NSF funded physics REU programs is very competitive, and she has been accepted into one of the very best and most competitive."

Burch has worked as France's research student for nearly two years, giving her the experience to be recognized as one of the top physics students in the country.

"I have been able to have one-on-one interaction with many of the faculty members here at Georgia College. They are devoted to their students and really want to see us succeed in our field," said Burch. "I believe my experience at Georgia College with hands-on research is one of the reasons I was able to get this opportunity."

Burch will spend several weeks this summer at Duke University researching before leaving for CERN.

"I'm looking at possibly going to Duke's graduate school, so I hope to use this opportunity to learn how they work in their labs, meet potential colleagues and decide if particle physics is what I want to pursue in the future," said Burch.