Shining Student Michael Adjei Osei

Originally specializing in electronics during his undergraduate studies in Ghana, master's student Michael Adjei Osei took a bold leap into theoretical physics upon discovering the groundbreaking research at the University of Lethbridge. His involvement in ambitious scientific research projects, coupled with the invaluable knowledge exchange among fellow graduate students, has enriched Michael's academic experience. His vision for the future includes leading a research laboratory and becoming a professor, leveraging his knowledge for positive societal impact.

I am most active and fully occupied when working on very ambitious scientific research projects. I am curious about technological research projects that, if accomplished, have the potential to impact a large number of individuals and the economy as a whole.

Meet Michael | Sincere. Motivated. Sociable.
Program: Master of Science | Major: Physics
Hometown: Kwadaso, Ghana

Why did you choose ULethbridge?

After completing my undergrad, I researched ULethbridge and I was amazed at the theoretical physics research by the faculty members, particularly the work of Dr. Arundhati Dasgupta from the Department of Physics & Astronomy on determining the origin of dark matter and dark energy.

I was interested in contributing to the field of discovering the origin of dark matter and dark energy because it has been one of the biggest mysteries in physics. By understanding what dark matter and dark energy are, we will gain a better understanding of what causes the expansion of the universe, as well as appreciate the universe, because dark matter makes up about 27 percent of the universe and dark energy makes up about 68 percent.

I recognized that studying at ULethbridge successfully combines a balanced system of theoretical and practical knowledge and skills acquisition, all of which are required for the fulfillment of my career goal.

Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge?

Although I was interested in dark matter and dark energy research throughout my undergraduate studies, I specialized in electronics and had a strong experimental background. Switching to theoretical physics was a change of field, but my passion for the study allowed me to thrive. My intention is to continue the research.

What is your research based on?

My research is about examining the origins of thermalization in quantum cosmology. We derived the WheelerDewitt equation, which is a relativistic formulation of the stationary Schrödinger equation, and it is also a Hamiltonian Constraint. We showed that the coordinate transformation in real space-time leads to transformation in super-space, and we used a semi-classical approach to solve the wavefunction of the universe using the WKB approximation. The WKB wavefunction has a Bogoliubov transformation. This can be interpreted as a thermalization process. We realized that we can make progress with the solutions we have obtained to find the origin of dark matter and dark energy. Our approach could provide something interesting in solving one of the mysteries in physics, which is the origin of dark matter and dark energy.

I have realized that through these marvellous experiences, I am most active and fully occupied when working on very ambitious scientific research projects. I am curious about technological research projects that, if accomplished, have the potential to impact a large number of individuals and the economy as a whole. However, it is similarly useful to me to interpolate the new knowledge that I learn, so it tends to be utilized by different scientists in their research projects.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?

Meeting other graduate students and sharing my research with them, as well as them sharing their research with me, was a remarkable experience for me because it taught me about what my other colleagues are doing. This knowledge exchange was incredibly beneficial.

How have your professors impacted your education?

My professors have deepened my understanding of physics and taught me how to explain the correct physics to people.

Michael is a very hard-working, diligent student who strives to make scientific discoveries. – Dr. Arundhati Dasgupta, Department of Physics & Astronomy

Have you received any scholarships and awards?

I received the Supporting Our Students - Graduate Studies Award, which assisted in paying my tuition. It was really helpful, and I sincerely appreciate the donors. May God richly reward them.

In your free time, what do you like to do? What are your favourite hobbies?

I like reading the history of physics. I also like going to the gym; it makes me physically and mentally prepared for any task.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

My career goal is to lead a research laboratory and to be a professor at a research university, where I will strive to make use of my knowledge and skills with a positive societal impact.

What advice would you like to give those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

My advice to anyone who is about to embark on their journey at ULethbridge is to find passion in the subject they have specialized in. It will be challenging along the way, but your passion will motivate you to succeed.

Quick Answers

Favourite class: Advanced Quantum Mechanics and Advanced Electrodynamics
Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: Career fair
Favourite place to study: My office and the Library
What are three awesome things about you? 1. Hardworking. 2.  I care more about learning and growing than about being right.  3. I am resilient (more than I thought I was).