Qijia Zhou

Hi Dunster! My name is Qijia (chee-jah), and I am a second year PhD student in the Astronomy department. My current research focuses on the process of planet formation, specifically investigating potential chemical pathways to life and the habitability of planets beyond Earth (feel free to ask me questions about aliens). I graduated from the College in 2024 with a joint concentration in Physics and Astrophysics. During my undergrad, I did research in a variety of fields, including observational and laboratory astrophysics, nuclear physics through an REU program at Duke, and astronomical instrumentation + engineering for my senior thesis. I’m happy to chat about research in any of these areas or offer advice on REU, HCRP, or internship applications! I also recently applied for grad schools and the NSF fellowship, so please reach out to me if you’re considering applying to PhD programs!

Outside of research, I have lots of nerdy hobbies like reading fantasy and sci-fi novels, playing RPG video games, and creating visual art. When I’m feeling active, I also like to figure skate, play basketball, and hike. 

I’m so excited to meet you all, and please don’t hesitate to email me or say hi in the d-hall!