A day in the life of an Astrophysicist at Oxford University

When people find out I’m an astrophysicist - I often get asked: “So, what do you actually do all day?” The easiest way to answer that question is to show you. From data crunching, to seminars, to journal clubs, emails and chatting on the radio; this was my Thursday 14th November 2019.
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Smethurst et al. (2017) - star formation histories of fast and slow rotators - arxiv.org/abs/1709.09175
Smethurst et al. (2019) - calm growth of supermassive black holes - arxiv.org/abs/1909.01355
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📚 Note, USA & Canada hardback out 1st November 2022
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Music is "Future Girl" by RKVC from the KZbin Music Library
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👩🏽‍💻 Dr. Becky Smethurst is an astrophysicist researching galaxies and supermassive black holes at Christ Church at the University of Oxford.
drbecky.uk.com
rebeccasmethurst.co.uk

[@kamil5419]

Finally some "a day in life" video that shows the actual job and not what someone had for lunch and what they do in the gym. GREAT!

[@seitbekir]

OMG. People work at work.

[@kamil5419]

@@john_316_ It's just a matter of time spent on it in the video.

[@seitbekir]

@@john_316_ this is an ironic comment referring to those bloggers who making videos like "my day" and the whole video they chill and do fun stuff. Which is insincerely.

[@juliew1426]

IKR! Or outfit of the day, what's in my bag, etc...

[@arransykes9465]

Ngl, if I done a day in the life of a student it'd be something along the lines of "it's now 11am. After procrastinating on YT I am now getting on with my work. It's now 11:30 so after my hard work it's time for a 2 hour break

[@peeper2070]

Oh you’re an astrophysicist? Name every star.

[@jupiterdrops7752]

@BC Cubing lol 😂

[@shotbypriiince]

@BC Cubing 😞😞😞

[@cakeman7107]

you forgot tres 4a

[@hirvatrivedi3901]

@@shotbypriiince what about DRACO Or is that a constellation?

[@redpencil1409]

@@hirvatrivedi3901 its a constellation

[@catpoke9557]

This looks like such a fun job. It's like a perfect mix between a generic office job, and a job with real activity behind it. You're sat in an office a lot of the time, but with a purpose you care about. Sometimes with your own research goals, sometimes research for others- but always doing what you love. Thinking, researching, testing.

[@theharshtruthoutthere]

There is a story about “sky daddy” in whom so many believe. What I have to say about it is this: it is wise to come out ones imaginations. take finally a conscious look into the clouds, there is nobody up there. The Kingdom of GOD is further up, beyond the class dome in under which we all live. ain+t that the only reason why NASA sends its rockets up there, to break the dome which mankind believes to exist not. Well if our enemies believe, why shouldn't we?

[@koifishes]

This was like a movie or a short film. I don't know why, but I teared up at the end. This was very inspirational, and it makes me happy to see people genuinely happy with what they're doing in life. I hope to be this fulfilled someday in the future. Thanks for the video.

[@uberdriver8743]

Seeing how intelligent, honest, and hardworking this woman is and how easy she makes her work look makes me very envious

[@kittz16]

That's just correct

[@TR-bk1ts]

Faccs

[@TR-bk1ts]

@Null F that's true but you can still appreciate her

[@midhunmohan4684]

I think it's because she loves what she is doing.

[@TR-bk1ts]

@@midhunmohan4684 well that's obviously a factor. You gotta do what you love, that brings true success.

[@BrettMcS]

"What did you do today?" "I'm a physicist, so I thought about stuff". "Is that all?" "I wrote some of it down!"

[@inshadowz]

“Remember, kids, the only difference between screwing around and science is writing it down.” - Adam Savage

[@milamber82]

@@inshadowz Show your working. How?

[@nv7136]

Still waiting? When are you going to show us you working?

[@lasarith2]

inshadowz well it used to be, now it’s I gotta record it on my phone.

[@michaelweiner7731]

@@Sarcasm_Corporation Sorry for our Empire of Empirical Christian Eco-Phenomenology. Traveling Salesmen who give out stuff for free, didn't most cultures have a character like that. Funny how the only thing to Mark Jesus in the Mel Gibson movie was Dental Supremacy. Rapture or Rupture, bilateral degree of freedom, etc.

[@RMDEOFFICIAL]

I watched all 1118 seconds of this video, and would gladly do it again. It fascinates me how much people can learn and study in such a short period of time. everyone she talks about is truly remarkable; well done!

[@Futemire]

Thanks, you motivated my son to look into astrophysics!!!

[@angelica3744]

These are the kinds of "Day in the Life" videos I want to see, not those of influencers...

[@eucsstamticc]

This amazing woman IS an influencer

[@modestdaddy2000]

@@eucsstamticc true.

[@TomaTo-zh8cr]

Those videos are there for those that want it. You don't want it? That's fine. They're not for you.

[@sidneyh970]

To each their own. ❤

[@user-kb1dw9kg9j]

she is technically an influencer

[@Zod_JB]

Even an Astrophysicist uses a stack of books as a laptop stand. Love it lol

[@solidusseal]

It is almost she is human too ?

[@billystokes3917]

@@solidusseal No...an astrophysicist being human too is unheard of!

[@DazedAlligator]

A little more respectable than my empty pizza boxes as laptop stand I've implemented while working at home during Covid

[@No_Name_Sage]

My dad sent me this. Since I was 5 I have always been obsessed with astrophysics and everything related to it. So this is just so incredibly cool to me ❤

[@ceruleansin77]

This was so refreshing! You did a great job showcasing a well balanced day and keeping in the "real bits" like being on Instagram and Facebook. Thank you for making the idea of working as an astrophysicist so approachable!

[@phenomenalphysics3548]

Mom: what are you doing? Me: watching someone living my dream life

[@KrishFizix]

Amen

[@madhulund1762]

Oh my god YES. I relate so much! This is exactly what I want to do tooo!

[@isabelleambrose9293]

Can we all make a cult for astrophysicist

[@thk2201]

Work for your dreams

[@icannotcomeupwithanything4609]

My mom sent me this video when I told her I wanted to be Astrophysicist..

[@roddickwynoricafort2439]

this lighthearted portrayal of a seemingly complex and "for geniuses only" job (at least that's the impression of most people) makes it a more approachable choice of profession for me, thank you :)

[@xxkl4vd1oxx2]

How do you find it enjoyable, i mean it is literally the same as every desk job, just you see galaxies on the computer instead of numbers

[@michaelw7327]

@@xxkl4vd1oxx2 exxactly. i don't understand how these people find these types of jobs interesting. I mean kudos to them, but I just can't do it. I'd rather situate myself in a job that keeps me moving around all day on my feet. I don't see myself slumped at a desk job for my 40-year career.

[@xxkl4vd1oxx2]

@@michaelw7327 i am very disappointed from astrophysics. I mean i thought after 10 years of hard work (bachelor+mastsr+PHD) one would work in an observatory, a radio telescope or.a laboratory like that one that found gravitational.wave, not ending up on a desk job 24/7. Furthermore only 1 out of 10 so such people are considered "lucky". Thats why i decided to study aerospace engineering, a much more hsnds off job

[@tddybear]

@@xxkl4vd1oxx2 because those galaxies, while you think they're just numbers in a different form, don't compute that way when you know about them. It's not just x number matches up with y number, it's _okay, my hypothesis is z, what do I need to bring together to prove that? whether x and y match up? holy shit they do, this is literally something I discovered involving something I'm really passionate about and actually could mean something_

[@xxkl4vd1oxx2]

@@tddybear yeah but still it makes no sense i mean i could download such application on my PC at home and start working. And you are not completely right because 90% of time so called "astrophysicists" have to check data of galaxies and/or control a research. Only.little time is there to "discover"

[@deewonda1952]

Dr. Becky I LOVED watching your day! Astronomy and astrophysics have always been quiet passions of mine, and I’m still toying with the idea of getting a degree in astrophysics, just because!😊 Thank you for sharing!!

[@DrBecky]

Glad you enjoyed it! All the best if you decide to pursue an astrophysics degree 💫

[@ella-ur3tn]

You are such a inspiration especially for women and young girls like me. We need more women in science and maybe you don't notice but such videos can inspire so many young girls.

[@davegtar]

Things I've learned watching this video. 1, it's confirmed my love for science. 2, That looks exhausting. 3, That looks rewarding. 4, That looks like it can be boring. 5, Exercise is important. 6, This Becky person is rather intelligent. 7, Oxford is a whole other world 8, I've wasted the last 10 years of my life. 9, Science is still awesome. 10, Nerds are my people!

[@sarasam6392]

Maddie 11-bullet journal

[@arvindiyer1649]

You read my mind 😂

[@andromedaa__]

I don't understand the hate for the Nerdss!! Dammn they're legendd 😂😂

[@zistland3954]

I think it is kind of bornig

[@hambonefakenamington69]

YES!

[@plumfun6750]

See this? THIS is what needs to be show to kids going into high-school and again when they are in high-school. This is the kind of thing that gets people excited. It's a job/career that is basically a "do what you think is going to be useful, fun and insightful" thing you do every day and then get money for it. :) .. Oh well. I love space. I love math. Unfortunately for me, math *hates my guts*...so...yeah. :( I guess that's why I'm an artist. :) PS: Dr. Becky...Subscribed! :)

[@slimxshady6111]

A lot of the time, people don't think math is for them because they have holes in their knowledge from years and years ago. I was one of those people. I say go back to the basics and make sure to master the concepts and then move forward. It will help a lot and math will become fun and not frustrating!

[@sakatagintoki3971]

@@slimxshady6111 good advice

[@claire_tube]

Hi, person going into high school here! I totally agree, this motivated me to push past the mental blocks I’ve been experiencing 👍

[@octopus_brain_]

@@slimxshady6111 same here!

[@bellawood5916]

im a senior now and im struggling between choosing to be a graphic designer or an astrophysicist, any advice?

[@carsonklein2156]

Super inspiring to see how curious and motivated you are at work. Thank you

[@jmac74]

I'm just a newcomer to your channel, but I have to right away say that this was really generous of you and your colleagues. Thank you so much for that great insight.

[@RAYNINGMAKER]

SO, I knew I wanted to be a scientist before, but now I really know I want to be a scientist

[@DrBecky]

Yay 🤗

[@krishnasuthar8278]

Lol same 😂😂

[@fabianaparedes124]

Same

[@dreamerrp]

Hehe same

[@Michie1311]

@@DrBecky you've become an inspiration for me!

[@erictaylor5462]

Choose a career you love, and you will never work a day in your life.

[@DrBecky]

My dad told me that when I was in high school - best piece of advice ever

[@erictaylor5462]

@@DrBecky Better than, "To thine own self be true" It's funny that so many people consider Polonius's advice to his son as wise. Polonius was meant to be an idiot, and his advice was suppose to be stupid. Or at least so obvious it need not be expressed.

[@barryon8706]

That's true for me too, but only because nobody wanted to hire a professional turtle polisher.

[@I_am_ARTBOT]

I've always heard the next line in that saying is "because that job isn't hiring."

[@no_handle_required]

@@barryon8706 Dang it! I looked all over the net for a turtle polisher for my turtles. I ended up having to put them in the dryer with little pebbles. Advertise more.

[@garymason4203]

Oh my!!!!! You are a machine! This is amazing what you do, thanks for showing everyone your day, it looks incredible. It's amazing how you can operate on this level everyday. Keep doing what you're doing this is great.

[@roopapandit4931]

I HOPE YOURE HAPPY AND THRIVING! you should be proud. you are awesome.

[@DogukanSeptem]

I've dreamt of becoming an astrophysicist when I was a child and a teenager. Well, the problem was it apparently takes a lot more than just fascination :)

[@user-iy2ud1ki4l]

Same here 🥲

[@Ranger-sl3qq]

Uh… yeah💀

[@Nishantpatale9423]

@@Ranger-sl3qq like what

[@matti6633]

I had the same probleme 😂 Now i teach it at school and try to fascinate others

[@Nishantpatale9423]

@@matti6633 like what more than fascination. Like passion

[@sahilbasera834]

As a Computer Science Major, I must admit I was a little shocked to see astrophysicists code that much.

[@parallax8322]

Yeah! It really depends on the area of research they do to some degree, but nowadays in astrophysics coding has really become a core skill. Not as diverse of a skill set is necessary as that of a computer science major, but certainly reasonable knowledge of Python (maybe sometimes Matlab or C, but should really be Python). As with all most other fields, computers can help us do amazing things that would be impossible without them!

[@sahilbasera834]

@@parallax8322 Wow, interesting stuff. I guess coding is becoming a part of every profession.

[@parallax8322]

@Plagioclase Feldspar Wow that's awesome! In what context? Is it mostly modeling and the like?

[@jsaenzMusic]

I know! I just commented, " It was funny seeing how I'm over here going to school to learn how to code and you're talking about how in your field it's CONVENIENT to learn how to code to do YOUR work!"

[@Ghost572]

Coding comes up in loads of jobs that use mathematics though. You can build tools etc.

[@isindecisive1708]

Currently trying to study for my a levels at the moment - I’m hoping to head off and do classics at uni, but my physics and further maths a levels still mean so much to me. It’s so encouraging to see careers that look so incredible, even in the far off distance. Thanks for the study motivation!

[@Apollost]

That was a fantastic dive into the inspiring job of an astrophysicist! Thank you for all of your effort to bring science to the masses and great luck with your discoveries!

[@DrBecky]

So admittedly I picked a rather exciting, busy day! An average day might see me sat at my desk doing a bit more research. But this still gives you a nice flavour for what I get up to 👍🤗🤓 IMPORTANT NOTE: The Department of Physics at Oxford is NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. It is protected by strict security to protect both staff and the public. If you turn up at the building, you will be turned away and escorted by security from the premises. UPDATE: You'll all be happy to know that I got some AirPods for Christmas 2019

[@Nykona-Sharrowkyn]

If you ever get some free time, and have not already done it, you should visit the beautiful town of Abingdon, it used to be the county town of Berkshire 🙂

[@drjohnd.9508]

Is that "scientific research"? Please provide your empirical evidence based on the scientific method. Oh, you can't, because you do not have any, but you are happy to push a fantasy onto unsuspecting people.

[@rochbmathiot6423]

Dr. Becky, I am an amateur, backyard astronomer and I just want to thank you, and your colleagues for taking up the cosmic challenges that us, mere mortals cannot dream of. The reality is far more interesting than sci-fi. Keep up the great work. You make the unimaginable interesting.

[@doctorscoot]

Dr. Becky I have two questions: 1. Is Christ Church your college? How do they pick which college hosts the dinner? 2. Where’s the bit with the 3 hours of mind numbing admin and useless requests from far flung uni administrative flunkies asking you to reformat last years pack of research quality metrics into the new format standard arbitrarily decided by the vice chancellor at a committee meeting last month and can you have them done by Friday morning please even though we’ve known about this for six weeks and only telling you now? Or is Oxford magically not like every other university in Britain?!

[@drjohnd.9508]

No empirical evidence based on the scientific method. No science happening here, just a fantasy belief in the mind.

[@LurkerPatrol5]

As an astronomer, that happy dance for code working is real. 100% accurate.

[@glacieractivity]

As a geoscientist/climatologist - definitely true. (Especially if renting expensive/always limited time on the clusters/supercomputers).

[@mitchellemochi2523]

You're an astronomer? Am a senior in highschool and I want to study astrophysics. Any tips? Words of advice?

[@LurkerPatrol5]

@William Shakespeare I'm Indian (born and lived for 7 years) but I live and grew up in the US. One of my close buddies in undergrad was a guy named Kunal who came from India to study astrophysics with us. It's very possible, do not give up on your dreams.

[@LurkerPatrol5]

@@mitchellemochi2523 Talk to profs in your local university who are in physics and astronomy and see if they have any courses you could sit in and do some internships and learn something from them. Check out any lectures or special talks that they may have. Take a couple of astronomy or physics courses. Don't be afraid about math and being good or bad at it, you can be relatively bad at math and still do astronomy, you just improve with time and skill. Learn some programming because it'll come out to be the most important tool for doing astronomy regardless of whether you do observational or theoretical. Python is a great programming language to learn, we use it in our workplace all the time.

[@mitchellemochi2523]

@@LurkerPatrol5 oh my God thanks. I was actually doing Java but I'll chuck it now. Thank you!

[@Bluebird22200]

This video was really well put together. Love the style of speeding it up and commenting over it. Great job

[@yashsingh6508]

Another great day in the life video! Most of the day in the life vids I've come across have been idealized versions of reality, with little insight into how an average day actually looks like. This, and another video I watch yesterday by Alexander Sneyd were actually great to watch and show what a day in the life of a physicist looks like!

[@DrAdnan]

It must be nice hanging out with super smart people all day

[@seanwebb605]

It would be very threatening for me.

[@cia2293]

Even with me?

[@arleeya]

Aren’t you in medical school? Lmao

[@thomas.02]

@@arleeya yea i remember seeing adnan commenting on med school insiders

[@reallynotpc]

The jokes are usually better.

[@ninjanerdstudent6937]

She has her very own Big Bang Theory social group at lunch, that’s so cute.

[@icannotcomeupwithanything4609]

Only if I had that in my school. 😔

[@_fr.salv_3017]

@@icannotcomeupwithanything4609 same

[@HassanPlayz]

@@icannotcomeupwithanything4609 if only people in my school were interested in school and stuff 😔

[@HassanPlayz]

ok so now I'm moving schools so fingers crosssed the new school is more smart and focused

[@Kritagya2007]

@@HassanPlayz all the best? Are they smart?

[@CarrieSueGeorge]

Thank you so much for your help and support and I am very grateful for you and your observations in support for the blackhole and I understand for I was made from.

[@Jhfisibejoso8pkabrvo2is8]

"I try to answer questions no one knows the answers to" is applicable to just about any field of scientific research! And I like that about science. Everyone is dealing with a bunch of data, math, seminars, and analyses...the topic just varies from researcher to researcher. Lol When people ask me what an epidemiologist does, my typical response is "solve problems you never knew existed." Many of the privileges we take for granted are afforded to us by public health research 🙂

[@hongyuzhang5631]

Why does it feel like you have more hours in a day than me?

[@bubblegumbp9050]

lol same XD

[@uru1821]

Lol...yahh

[@ironwither123]

She barely even procrastinated and this shows the discipline it needs to be a phd student. Im so jealous :((

[@limiv5272]

@@ironwither123 She did know she was recording, so it could've affected her choices that day, even if just unconsciously

[@vigilantcosmicpenguin8721]

Man, I keep losing hours. No clue where I left them.

[@johngfam]

"This is truly my dream job, and I get to do it all again tomorrow." That's just awesome. To be able to do something for a living where you feel like you get to do it, not have to do it; that's just great. Good for you! Wishing you the best in your career! :)

[@ericaclare4362]

I'm just discovering your channel and content but my God, are you ever inspiring to dream big! Thank you so much!

[@stillme4084]

Its amazing that an astrophysicist can bend time to fit an entire day into 18 minutes and 34 seconds. So cool.

[@bonelessbooks9263]

Hamilton bag? Mistborn mug? Harry Potter reference? AND you’re an astrophysicist??? You’re my new favorite person

[@kb-ih7ni]

Is it a Mistborn mug or a vector of a blackhole’s event horizon…? The Gilmore Girls mug though!

[@bloodstainedramparts6631]

fun fact : bones are bookless

[@ayo6739]

@Jay Rock AK shut up

[@svseducationalacademygvred5292]

@Jay Rock AK shut up.

[@dear.dhrutii]

@Jay Rock AK shut up

[@erictaylor5462]

Not just answering questions no one knows how to answer, but you are answering questions most people don't even know to ask. That is the most awesome part of being a scientist.

[@claredouglas5969]

Oh my goodness I loved this! Just found your channel. I was at Keble as an undergrad and I also lived one street away from the BBC in Summertown for a time way back in the 90s, so thank you so much for giving me a quick glimpse of both those places! I studied music so it was fascinating to get a glimpse into a totally different subject as well.

[@TacoBell84]

Back to where it all started. I remember the day I found Dr Becky’s Channel and this was the 1st clip that popped up and have never looked back. I have learned so much from your videos since.

[@shannonanderson9738]

Im starting my education journey to eventually be a Astrophysicist as a 24 year old single mother with a 4 year old, I know it's going to be a harder journey then others but you give me so much inspiration to follow my dream. 🥰

[@lunahri4173]

i am about to start (this october) and wondered if i am… too late or something like that as a 24 year old, when most are like 18-20. but hearing how many actually start later than usual makes me gain hope again that it doesn’t matter at all, as long as i do what i love :)

[@michaelqu1526]

I'm starting my BSc degree in physics as well this fall and I'm 24 too (even turning 25 soon after classes start). Hope I can end up at somewhere I will expect to be eventually.

[@lunahri4173]

@@michaelqu1526 absolutely :D if we put our minds to it and love these subjects it surely will work out, one way or another!

[@BenTheSkipper]

@@lunahri4173 👏 Good luck!

[@maribri8417]

Hey, i know that you are doing it great! you’re an amazing mom!!!

[@mzicpol]

coming to oxford to start my phd this year, im beyond excited, oxford has been my dream ever since i was a kid

[@AD-eo8wj]

oh my god that is so cool! good luck!!

[@mzicpol]

@@AD-eo8wj thank you!! :D

[@srijonsen1574]

What are you doing your PhD on?

[@mzicpol]

@@srijonsen1574 new battery technology

[@poojagb]

That’s awesome! All the best :)

[@eclipsedq]

you are so productive! i think i just hit something- it really is true that everyone has the same amount of time, but seeing how you used your time after one of your meetings (tweeting about a video, clipping a video, talking to a colleague, writing notes on the meeting), i see that i should really be maximizing my time

[@petrov3190]

One of the best "A Day in the Life of..." I've seen. Straight to the point, not waking up, brush your teeth, taking a pee and getting a shower and pointless stuff like that. Although I have different career, I am amazed and fascinated by the Universe and love everything about it, especially the black holes, quasars, neutron stars, pulsars, magnetars, intelligent life and alien civilization, other dimensions and Universes, etc. Great video and keep up the good work!

[@jedesguerra7207]

Been studying Physics as a bachelor's degree and struggling, and I've been lost as to whether I still have passion for the field. Seeing you and other people's successes and drive in doing what I dream to be doing is really motivates me to give my all and get to where you guys are. Thank you for the vids!

[@skullhelmet1944]

I hope you do find the motivation to keep doing what you love, I know I'm a complete stranger, but I can tell you that unfinished dreams are a thing I've been dealing with and it's a horrible feeling. Good Luck!

[@z0xy266]

I dont know how people can do this, its so hard it makes me feel so worthless and usless as a person.

[@madyjules06]

@@skullhelmet1944 your comment is replete with wisdom & truth thanks mate :)

[@rosellabill]

I hope you stick to it and do your best. Reach for the start Man.

[@bushmonster1702]

I have a degree in physics and planetary science. Pretty much everyone struggles at some point on the way. I hope you are doing well.

[@vivimundaca4170]

KZbin should have a "love" option. It seems "like" is just not enought to rate the video !!! You are inspiration!!!! ♡♡♡

[@DrBecky]

😂 thanks! Very kind of you to say

[@shikhar3281]

Applause feature has been added tho. Not on most channels but yes

[@inappropriatecontent2589]

If I had this sort of flexibility in my daily work schedule, my productivity would plummet to ZERO. Major props for not procrastinating your day away!!

[@stephenkiely9244]

Looks amazing! Hats off to you for working so hard, staying that engaged and focussed all day must be mentally exhausting.

[@sannaoverington6285]

As a high school student I sometimes feel demotivated about why I’m studying. But this video made me see it again!!

[@DrBecky]

It’s so so hard to see the long road when you’re at school, especially when you don’t always know where that road leads. Keep studying hard, choose the subjects you love and the road will lead to something you love 👍

[@MICKEYISLOWD]

I believe in visualization. See yourself in the future doing the job you really want. See the pride in yourself getting the qualification you need to attain this. Imagine going to work everyday excited to get there and all the new people and places you will see. Imagine it as an exciting adventure. Then imagine the opposite of this so you are going to a job that is horrible because you never gained those qualifications. Doing a job that is physically hard and uncomfortable with very low pay. Working with people who never inspire you and the worries of losing that job because of you are too easy to replace. Imagine doing a job where there is no promotions ect. Compare the two side by side. You do have to work all your life so why not choose a job that is exciting where you work as a team with each other with a shared vision. And remember, when you are studying you everyday one step closer to achieving this. So many jobs will be done by automation in the future as much as 50% in fact. I is vital now to actually gain a high level of education to safeguard against this. The studying can be exciting if you choose the right one for you. There are so many science vocations now.

[@Malitubee]

Keep striving for greatness

[@SwissCheese112]

it doesnt get any more motivating in university lol

[@BenTheSkipper]

Based off of my personal life,if end up in a Uni & this is where you're coming from, something from within you has to change ( probably drastically) if you're gonna make it past undergrad.

[@kimetsunoyeojin2188]

My adhd self is trembling at how perfect your notes are and how you manage to stay on task this long

[@arbiter569]

It's a very comfortable life but also very earned. Physicists work their absolute butts off to achieve their doctorates alone. Love the channel!

[@huyked]

Wow, that was so neat to see. Thank you for creating this "Day in the life of" video! Life is so varied and amazing. Thank you for expanding our knowledge of the universe!

[@acrylup]

I must admit I shed a tear seeing you living the dream I had as a child. When I was in highschool, I got scared with the difficulty of science class and the amount of work it would take for me to be an astrophysicist. But then, I know now I would have made it because with passion you can do whatever you want. I still managed to get a PhD, but in pharmaceutical sciences. :P Thank you so much for this video !

[@cr3ations]

great work on your PhD!

[@acrylup]

@@cr3ations thank you 🙏🏾

[@amelia-jd3vy]

What made you change path? How did you find your PhD? Any jobs you are looking into, I am stuck between the medical route and space (?) route haha - didn't really know how to describe it

[@acrylup]

@Ксенія♡укр thank you so much. I hope you’re happy with what you have managed to achieve in your life. You might just succeed in academics with what your kids will do. I hope you have a great day. 👋🏾

[@Vytas.]

Come on. Astrophysics is good when told well, but to do it is extremely boring. In most cases you deal with what does not exist by now and what will not have an impact in your life time. In most cases you cannot even set up an experiment to test your hypothesis, but may need to wait another 40 years for some cosmic event to reoccur. And you know, this was a very distinct day that Becky described. Even journal clubs are not daily events. Forget the state dinner, that even she herself said is only twice a year. In pharmaceutical sciences we save lives now.

[@anais937]

Imagine being that intellectually gifted. I could literally never.

[@darthmath1071]

stop making yourself excuses and get to work. Granted, some people have talent, but you don't need to be any gifted to become a scientist if that's what you truly want to do.

[@anais937]

a b idk if this is some sort of inspirational comment but I’m not making any excuses. I’m saying she is very smart. I don’t want to be a scientist.

[@harinirajesh3838]

@@darthmath1071 this sounds aggressive but this is exactly what I needed to get motivated again, thanks!

[@Uttam_Kumar_Jana]

No one is gifted. With a good environment which allows individuals to develop themselves,a path in mind that one finds satisfying , desirable along with the habit of constant consistent learning can let you do anything in this world.

[@user-kb1dw9kg9j]

I don't like that word gifted. Everyone is born equal, some just work harder. To credit people's success to their "natural gift" can actually be offensive to those who actually worked their ass off for what they got.

[@knivesron]

from where i am. its bewildering how intellegent you are. the passion that comes through is amazing and uplifting too.

[@thelorax9622]

Thanks Dr Becky - greeting from Australia. Despite the fact I was too lazy to pursue science as a career, I loved (and still love) reading about all manner of science activity and have been a follower of the space program since I was old enough to understand what it meant. It's great to see someone who is doing their thing and being genuinely excited about going to work - something that I will never experience, but I wish you continued success in your search for knowledge. Since you mentioned Australia, you should certainly come and visit - we have some pretty good sites for astrophysics.

[@shanilmisra]

"I'm a physicist, I should have seen that one coming - damned gravity!" HAAAAHAHA!!!

[@jeppefrolund1718]

Just stumbled on this video. Awesome. A fun insight into what being a scientist really means. Some days you sit at your computer and run code to manage large amounts of data, some days you get to travel to Chile to look into space through a giant telescope. Other days you attend lectures with brilliant people talking about an area they are experts in. That's really cool. I think my favorite part of this video was the journal club. You get a new topic presented or new research by somebody brilliant enough to convey it properly, and you get to do a brief seminar on an article yourself. Thank you for this fun look at what a day as an astrophysicist might be like. Oxford looks like a really pleasant place to be working. Kudos for living the dream!

[@Martin-iw1ll]

It looks really rainy though

[@Cinetyk]

Thank you for sharing all this. I've been in Physics Uni surrounded by many people such as yourself, but it's been always hard to convey to family what the work "is". I feel it's absolutely imperative we keep supporting top scientists whilst keeping people understanding in why we do things like we do. Lot's of time it feels like a waste of existence time, I think it's honest to say - which of course has implications in money spent - but honestly sometimes you do really need to "spend money" to get the good stuff out of it. It's silly I think it's cliché but then in practice I find it's just right. I'm rambling - just cheeres!

[@jeffreysokal7264]

Great video! Quite a busy, and fulfilling day.

[@dezhiliu1687]

Seeing your life as a scientist truly encourages me to continue pursuing my passion in the academics

[@rubensanmartin6237]

This is just like my days... I just started my PhD in astrophysics and yes, this is just how my entire week is like... Isn't that wonderful? Cheers from Chile :D

[@BanHelsing]

Wena po compatriota, dónde estai haciendo el doctorado?

[@mateovazquez6685]

Estás planeando quedarte en Chile o pensás emigrar?

[@johnfitzpatrick6544]

So impressed by your note taking. So clear and no crossing out or scribbles. I could never be that neat and tidy,sadly!

[@sankettiwari2072]

This is my dream job too... Love the way you show your whole day.

[@yarkehkeh]

Came here to write how awed I'm with her completing Phd in 2 months. _furious applauds_

[@MichaelBrown-kk6ck]

I thought she said two months to write the thesis. There would have been a lot of research to do before that. Still, two months to write it up is impressive when many folks take six months or more. Part of that will be how many new questions come up in the writing process that need to be answered. Writing has a way of making you sit back and think a little deeper about what you’re doing.

[@arieltabuzojr2434]

This is unfair. You can't be a physicist, smart, fun and gorgeous at the same time.

[@Nebukanezzer]

And adorably cute.

[@Matthias27182]

And intelligently smart.

[@h2q8]

Oof. The simps do be coming out of the woodwork /s

[@CryMoar_]

cringe level 1 million

[@harukadeimos3472]

Thank you for this video, I've always wanted to see how scientists in general go about a regular work day. I love astrophysics but a whole lot of it is over my head but still fascinating. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. ❤

[@scotttaylor8498]

Thank you for giving me an inside on what it takes to be at astrophysicist awesome and thank you for what you do you're helping us be one step closer on where the heck we came from.

[@nflr92]

It looks so strange to see people in the same confined space just talking and visiting with each other. Seeing people on public transport and in restaurants just......living. I miss it.

[@hyferg]

Two weeks to flatten the curve

[@dickJohnsonpeter]

Nothing changed here. No one really gave a crap because we knew it was BS from the start. Some people bought into it but they were the exception.

[@ferengiprofiteer9145]

@@dickJohnsonpeter Where's here? I felt the same way but that was the minority view in small town Texas.

[@dickJohnsonpeter]

@Rollz Sure, not everyone, I exaggerated a bit but it was apparent early on that no one knew anyone getting sick and the only evidence was people saying they had it on social media to get attention or a very VERY few people that you could be confident did actually get it. People weren't dropping dead, no piles of bodies anywhere, no crowded hospitals seen in real life, no evidence really appeared in reality, only on tv so when reality doesn't match up with what you're being told you "know". I'm up north and people carried on normally as much as possible. The sad thing is we were not affected by the thing itself, we were highly affected by the reaction to it and exploitation of it. People suffered so much, lives destroyed, but not from the vyrus itself. I had to go to about four different hospitals and doctors often for all of 2020-2022 for major injuries I received from an accident and the places were basically empty or normal amount of ppl at most.

[@abz5485]

@kebab enthusiast ok kitty cat lol

[@Be07luv]

Wow, I’m a medical doctor in America, but I’ve always wondered how it would be to live/work at Oxford. It’s amazing to get a glimpse of your culture and profession. It’s so entertaining to watch you work! Thank you.

[@kswis]

Thanks for taking us along

[@altf2o]

This is by far my favorite “A day in the life of …” that looks so cool!

[@flamingstealthbanana4299]

Thank you so much for doing this! Really appreciate the effort put into the quality of the video!

[@DrBecky]

Thanks 🤗 🔥🦹🏻‍♂️🍌

[@ianweasly5366]

I like how you swith between topics like "how black holes affect their surroundings" and "lunch"

[@mrwest5552]

stretching and limbering up at the desk are a great start to a day, as you know. Good Work.

[@ggkol8745]

Wow, this is a really amazing insight that I don't think I've ever gotten from any job ever, besides the one I am literally doing myself. Thank you so much! Super helpful for me!

[@isaaq5253]

“Hot squash” boy that’s a first

[@Th3Siam]

@@nedboase7909 might depend on where you're from, I've never seen it in shops. Is is a London thing?

[@Th3Siam]

@@nedboase7909 from Yorkshire here

[@Uniqorn]

weirdest thing i ever heard of, who the hell drinks it hot

[@oldinion]

@@Uniqorn Black Currant is pretty commonly drunk hot. Other flavours not so much.

[@oohkalanzi]

😂😂😂

[@inspite5592]

Hi Dr. Becky! I am a 6th grade student at the Sri Lankan International School - Riyadh (SLISR), Saudi Arabic, and I'm from Sri Lanka. It's been exactly 2 weeks and 2 days, since I turned 12. Since little, I wanted to have an ambition; an ambition that is capable of only me, an ambition that no one else in my class had... Once I decided to be a police, then a doctor, then a pilot etc. Nevertheless, I didn't find any of them interesting. Until, I got to know about Space. Among all the branches of Science, what I found eye-catching was Astronomy. It was really, really MYSTERIOUS, AMAZING, WONDERFUL, and INTERESTING. After I saw this video for yours, I completely understood how it is to be an Astrophysicist at the Oxford University. Therefore, I will work in order to achieve my dreams of becoming an Astrophysicist or an Astronaut. I LOVE THIS VIDEO!!

[@cyrusmalik5967]

Good luck!

[@samp6934]

Hello son from Sri Lanka, First, keep your hope and determination. No matter what, keep your dreams alive. One of my doctorial student show me this video clip. This person is lying and she is trying to be Astronomer. Any real person who want to study in this field must sacrifice minimum 16-18 hours day. Yes, you can do it with your heart. Astrophysicist are combination of Astrodynamics and Physics together.. if you like to be an Astronaut, Astrophysicist you need to study hard, read science journals everyday. Keep your focus all the time. ----------- I am a professor last 28years, I teach Aerospace Engineering, Astrodynamics in the one of the top 5 university in USA., It's in California, I had dreams like you I am sure, your parents are proud about you.son. Again, No Matter What, keep your determination! Good luck!

[@samp6934]

To become a Astronomer, you need to study Astronomy and do lots of research. I had a friend from Sri Lanka Dr. Arthur c. Clark. He was a science fiction writer. Read some books and novels from him. That's a good start for you.

[@WildlifeWarrior-cr1kk]

Get used to it indian doctor becky won't respond to you

[@Animeanime453]

@@WildlifeWarrior-cr1kkIndia and Sri Lanka are different countries

[@KingBawb-wg3jo]

Highly informative video. Thank you for sharing a snippet of your life with us.

[@thomasnichols8150]

I love Dr. Becky's videos. They are always interesting.

[@abhijitlamsoge]

This is exactly how to describe a day in the life of series. Depict what you really do and how the day looks like.

[@beastbuilder]

Me after a lecture: Becoming a walking dead zombie Dr. Becky after lecture: Euphoric like post sports activity

[@CarolinaKasey]

beastbuilder Relatable but it’s important to replenish yourself so keep yourself hydrated, and keep some snacks that isn’t too unhealthy. If it’s not enough listen to music as long it doesn’t resonate with you feeling dead on the inside.

[@beastbuilder]

@@CarolinaKasey yeah you definetely right about hydration but in my opinion it also comes down to sitting a long time and the person who is doing the lecture - nutrition wise i care a lot about what i put in my body.

[@thomasp4902]

Listening to lecturers is easy :s Giving the lecture probably much harder I should think :)

[@youngscotsman]

its called MDMA or Speed....lol was in her coffee

[@akimnerom8231]

Stop wanking

[@Akkordeondirigent]

I don't follow too closely, I have to admit. But I openly confess that I admire you quite a lot for your achievements. You are very likable, a nice person to have around, and now I have a glimpse of your daily work. That leads me to say: Thank you! Really. I consider scientific research as highly valuable. And I admire you even more.

[@wesleyconner3229]

The flexibility of your work life is whats amazing me so much. I work in a factory on the U.S and im lucky if i see sunlight or take the time to just have a conversation with someone over lunch

[@praharpatel3521]

This video was so fast paced it felt like I was watching it on 2x.

[@g00nther]

Ha! I actually put it on .75 speed to watch after some time

[@moontlc]

When I am doing STEM in schools , I always encourage the kids to go and look for Dr Becky (and also sixty symbols). Keep up the good work.

[@DrBecky]

Thanks mark 🤗

[@lreid1457]

That was awesome, thanks for sharing and inspiring as you live your dream!

[@oda_margrethe]

This was so interesting and nice to see! And I loved your final sentence of the video :D

[@anakinjovanus1135]

Your basically living my dream... I haven't done my gcses yet and I really hope i can do astrophysics. You are the one who made me determined to try to do well thank you

[@PlugInKali]

You're basically, not your basically. You're = You are.

[@anakinjovanus1135]

@@PlugInKali srry abt that lol I just text like that sometimes

[@catbangs276]

i never wondered about this, yet here i am.

[@DrBecky]

👋

[@darenme]

Thank you Dr, Becky, it is important for students to know the life of being a scholar.

[@arielguzman2875]

Amazing. Thank you for doing this. Very helpful to know

[@stiimuli]

Oh yeah? Well i spent the day coming up with excuses not to leave my apartment. Don't be jealous.

[@epiphanyy146]

Now you have to find an excuse to leave ur apartment

[@markrichardson21]

Respect for this efficiency over the day. As being researcher is such a thought intensive job it is easy to get carried away and distracted by so many things.

[@gplustree]

I have ADHD and watching this gave me feels. Just the amount of organization required to do this typical day would be like running a marathon for me. I have always been into space, I'm glad there are organized people out there learning all the amazing things there are to learn so that people like me can read about it

[@cymoonrbacpro9426]

Mark Richardson You just described a working day of a fiction writer.

[@markrichardson21]

@@cymoonrbacpro9426 As a scientist I often feel like that anyway.

[@baptistedelplanque8859]

@@markrichardson21 actually if someone proves your papers wrong they suddenly become some kind of fiction.

[@markrichardson21]

@@baptistedelplanque8859 Science is moving generally more and more into storytelling mode. It is not about the facts behind science, but the way things are written up in papers nowadays. And proving is quite a complex thing in science anyway, so we do not have to worry about that. ;)

[@musicloversylver6723]

Wish my country has a career for Astrophysicist like you Doc. Truly inspiring.

[@kamalakantanieves5371]

You make Astrophysics fun! Thanks so much.