I am Dr. Sargam Mulay, currently a PDRA funded by STFC at the University of Glasgow. My research focuses on both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of energy release and heating in solar flares. I utilise both ground-based and space-based atomic and molecular imaging and spectroscopic observations. Over the years, I have developed expertise in atomic and molecular plasma diagnostics.
I began my career in solar physics 12 years ago while pursuing my master’s degree, during which I conducted research at a solar radio observatory in India. Following that, I worked as a Junior Research Fellow at the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), India. I later moved to the UK to pursue my PhD at the University of Cambridge before returning to IUCAA for my postdoctoral research.
I have been an active researcher in solar physics in the UK for ten years. I have organised and co-organised sessions at the National Astronomy Meetings, focusing on promoting Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion and improving the gender balance among speakers. I am an active member of the PDRA Network Committee in Glasgow, where I foster collegiality by organising a monthly journal club and group meetings. I am passionate about supporting the academic progression of women researchers through initiatives such as the Girls in Physics events at Glasgow, and by collaborating with women researchers who are part of the Cosmology and Astronomy Researchers of Indian Nationality and Sisters (CARINAS) group and the Indian Network for Dynamical and Unified Solar Physicists (INDUS) group. Additionally, I am an active STEM ambassador, highly engaged in organising and participating in science outreach activities.
The UK Solar Physics community has provided invaluable resources which significantly influenced my career over the years. This position provides me with a great opportunity to represent the perspectives and needs of fellow postdoctoral researchers. My research expertise, along with my leadership and communication skills, will be valuable in contributing to the goals of the UKSP community at both national and international levels.