The CCPD Summer Internship Stipend makes it possible for students to pursue full-time research without needing to take on separate summer employment. In this post, a student reflects on conducting condensed matter physics research at Western Michigan University, working with superconducting materials and advanced lab equipment. The experience strengthened hands-on technical skills and confirmed a desire to pursue graduate study in physics.
“This summer I was fortunate enough to be able to spend it conducting research. That’s because with the Summer Internship Stipend, I was able to do my research without worrying about getting a summer job! Throughout the summer, I conducted research on condensed matter physics at Western Michigan University’s physics department studying the superconductor, Bi3In5.
Western Michigan University’s physics department is small but mighty. Professors are always busy helping students and supervising research, while the grad students work tirelessly on their experiments. I worked closely with Dr. Clem and his graduate student Saptadipa, using lab equipment such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), vibrating sample magnetization (VSM), and furnaces. The casual but focused environment of the lab was perfect for me to grow as a researcher. I was encouraged to ask any questions I had and was never expected to succeed in my first try, easing the pressure of using this expensive machinery.
One thing I really enjoyed was their willingness to allow me to contribute my ideas and to let me work on tasks alone. I created samples of Bi3In5, cut samples into size, and wired them to resistivity pucks for testing all without supervision, making me feel like a true researcher. I helped design experiments and my input in each step was always valued. My favorite part of my research was being able to use a blow torch to create tubes filled with inert argon to melt our sample!
Through this experience, I gained valuable knowledge in experimental design and hands-on application of research techniques. It also showed me just how rewarding and fun research can be. My goal now is to attend graduate school and continue doing cutting-edge and valuable research.” – Alek Hultberg ’26