Curiosity became a career

When Julia Servin graduated from the Master of Science Programme in Engineering Physics, she faced the question of what to do next.

“I enjoy challenges and love learning new things. Physics is one of the things I enjoy most, and something I want to work with. That’s why pursuing a PhD felt like a valuable next step,” she says.

During her studies, she learned about the JUICE space mission, which is set to arrive at Jupiter’s moons in 2031. On one of those moons, Ganymede, researchers believe there may be a salty ocean beneath the icy surface, and therefore the potential for life. That idea sparked Julia’s curiosity.

“The field I’m doing my PhD in, computational space physics, is not something I specialised in previously, but it was an area that really attracted me. When this doctoral position was advertised, it felt like a great opportunity,” she says.

More variety than many people think

As a doctoral student, Julia Servin is responsible for her own research project. Her research focuses on Ganymede and its aurora, a light phenomenon similar to the Northern Lights on Earth. Using simulations, she investigates how aurora forms on Ganymede and whether the same processes are responsible for the phenomenon on Earth.

“It will be exciting to see whether the simulations match the observations made by the JUICE mission,” she says.

I enjoy challenges and love learning new things

Julia appreciates the freedom that comes with being a doctoral student. She enjoys having the opportunity to shape much of her own research and to follow new questions as they arise.

According to her, the role is also far more varied than many people might imagine.

Skills for an entire career

A common misconception is that doctoral education is mainly about becoming an expert in a very narrow research field. Julia believes that view is misleading.

“Although my work during these years will result in a thesis within a very specific field, you learn so much more that will be valuable throughout your working life.”

Being a doctoral student means acting as your own project manager and learning how to balance research, coursework and teaching.

Part of Julia’s role involves teaching problem-solving sessions and supervising laboratory work in physics courses.

“It’s great fun, especially in the Foundation Year Programme, where you have the opportunity to engage students who may not already be interested in physics,” she says.

Stepping outside your comfort zone

Doctoral studies also provide opportunities to build networks and meet people with different perspectives. Through conferences and summer schools, Julia meets researchers and students from around the world. She is also involved in the Student Council of the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA).

“It’s a great way to gain insight into issues that are a little outside my own research area. It is also very rewarding to meet like-minded, engaged and inspiring people.”

For anyone considering applying for a doctoral position, Julia believes that curiosity and a willingness to learn are more important than already knowing everything about a future research field.

“Being a doctoral student pushes you outside your comfort zone, whether that means speaking in front of an audience, taking your own initiatives, or exploring an area that is completely new to you.”