Berkeley Astrophysics Blueprint: Space Research Lab

Taught By

Isabella Deutsch

Isabella Deutsch, a distinguished researcher at UC Berkeley Physics, leads cutting-edge investigations at the Berkeley Lab ATLAS Experiment. Her prestigious research fellowship at CIERA Northwestern University advanced breakthrough studies in supernova analysis and particle physics. A member of the US ATLAS Summer Undergraduate Program for Exceptional Researchers, Isabella has been through the most elite research programs in the field. Now working alongside Professor Shapiro's renowned research team, Isabella continues to push boundaries in high-energy particle physics while mentoring the next generation of astrophysicists.

Week by Week Curriculum

Week 1: Introduction to the Vastness of Astrophysics

Program overview and expectations
Fundamentals of astrophysics and required skill sets
Deep dive into celestial objects: comets, meteors, planets, galaxies
Introduction to cosmology and universe expansion

Week 2: Supernovae & Exoplanets

Time domain astronomy and supernovae mechanics
Interactive supernova simulation activities
Exoplanet formation and detection methods
Understanding habitable zones

Week 3: Observational Astronomy

Telescope types and data collection methods
Optical vs infrared astronomy
Kepler's Laws and orbital mechanics
Hands-on telescope simulation exercises

Week 4: Project Development

Scientific presentation techniques
Effective science communication
Project selection and planning
Research methodology overview

Week 5: Research Methods

Source evaluation techniques
Research documentation methods
Guided project work sessions
Individual mentorship

Week 6: Collaborative Research

Group research coordination
Resource consolidation
Presentation role assignment
Continued project development

Week 7: Presentation Development

Outline development and review
Structured presentation building
Mentor consultation sessions
Progress evaluation

Week 8: Peer Review

Structured peer feedback sessions
Presentation refinement
Content evaluation
Group collaboration workshops

Week 9: Final Preparation

Presentation timing and delivery practice
Final mentor review sessions
Technical refinements
Group rehearsals

Week 10: Final Presentations

Student research presentations
Expert feedback and evaluation
Future research pathway discussion
Program completion celebration