Jayde Willingham

Doctor of Philosophy

Astrophysics & Astronomy · Supervisors: Darren Croton and Ivo Labbé

Using simulations combined with observations to understand how our first galaxies were born, how they continue to evolve, and to probe weird and wonderful astronomical populations at high redshift.

Master of Research

Physics & Astronomy · Supervisors: Andrew Hopkins and Tayyaba Zafar

Refining dust extinction corrections in Hα luminosity functions using a radio-based calibration approach. Showed the locally calibrated Hα–radio relation significantly overestimates the cosmic SFRD by more than two orders of magnitude at z ≳ 1. A model in which dust extinction decreases with increasing redshift successfully reproduces observed SFRDs across cosmic history.

Bachelor of Philosophy

Physics & Astronomy

High-level coursework preparing for independent research as part of the Master of Research pathway.

Bachelor of Science

Physics · Completed with distinction

Electromagnetism, quantum information, and quantum optics. Developed a love of teaching and outreach during this time.

Bachelor of Mathematics

Pure & Applied Mathematics · Completed with distinction

Pure, applied, and statistical mathematics, studied alongside the Bachelor of Science.

ESO Summer Research Programme

Supervisors: Martyna Chruslinska and Mirko Curti

Investigated the growth of dense stellar systems throughout cosmic time by developing and testing semi-empirical models of cluster evolution and their influence on the cosmic star formation history.

CSIRO Studentship

Supervisor: Dr Maxim Voronkov

Investigated hyperfine structures of methanol masers in observational radio data through simulation, modelling, and statistical analysis.

Bachelor of Philosophy Research

Supervisor: Professor Andrew Hopkins

Quantified uncertainties and evaluated the robustness of star formation rate calculations, comparing performance to model-derived SFRs.

Bachelor of Philosophy Research

Supervisor: Dr Tayyaba Zafar

Explored the viability of using observational radio fluxes from star-forming galaxies to constrain SED models and improve parameter estimation.

Summer Research

Supervisor: Associate Professor Karen Livesey

Computational study of multi-level antiferromagnetic spin systems; derivation of system equations and MATLAB analysis.

Undergraduate Research

Supervisor: Associate Professor Lachlan Rogers

Investigated laser power dependence on photon autocorrelation timescales in the g(2)(τ) function, towards a rigorous model for analysing NV centres.

Course Coordination

EPPREP930 — Introduction to Mathematics for Engineering, Science and Technology

Ensured course content was delivered successfully and that students were supported in their learning.

Casual Academic

PHYS1205, PHYS1210, PHYS1200 (Newcastle) · PHYS1510 (Macquarie)

Taught physics problem-solving to classes of 15–40 students, emphasising conceptual understanding, logical reasoning, and mathematical technique. Collaborated with course coordinators to develop and tailor learning materials.

Laboratory Demonstrator

PHYS1205, PHYS1210, PHYS1250, ENVS1002 (Newcastle) · PHYS1210 (Macquarie)

Led classes of 10–50 students through experimental procedures. Evaluated and graded lab workbooks and reports with consistent feedback.

Course Development

EPPHYS152 — Physics Essentials · EPPREP970 — Physics for Medical Radiation and Health Sciences

Developed course notes and materials, wrote and recorded 2–5 minute content videos, organised content in Canvas and 5-HTP.

Peer Assisted Study Tutor

PHYS1250, MATH1800, STAT1300, MATH2310

Designed study materials with course coordinators and facilitated classes of 1–20 students through individual and group problem-solving.