Sumona Kumar
“I’ve been fascinated by the wonders of the natural world since I was young. Curiosity about how things work, coupled with a desire to make meaningful contributions to society through knowledge and innovation, inspired me to pursue a career in science.“
What question or challenge are you setting out to address?
Currently, I’m focused on exploring the possibilities of high-performance terahertz quantum cascade lasers through molecular beam epitaxial growth. My aim is to address the challenge of developing efficient and reliable continuous wave terahertz sources for applications, such as telecommunications.
What is a typical day like for you?
A typical day for me involves a mix of experimental work, data analysis, literature review, and academic discussions. Mostly spent in the cleanroom or THz lab, followed by analysing results and planning next steps.
What excites you about your work?
The prospect of contributing to cutting-edge research in the field of terahertz technology excites me the most. I find it thrilling to delve into the complexities of science, with the potential to develop technologies that could have a significant impact on various industries and scientific fields.
What advice would you give to a younger version of yourself?
I would advise my younger self to embrace challenges and failures as opportunities for growth, to be persistent in pursuing my passions, and to always seek opportunities for learning and self-improvement.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working on your research?
When I’m not immersed in research, I enjoy exploring new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. I find solace in nature and often spend time hiking or simply soaking in the beauty of the outdoors.