MORRIS BROOKS
WHERE?
UNIVERSITY OF ZURICH, ZURICH, SWITZERLAND
AREA OF WORK
- MATHEMATICS
- PHYSICS
AT ISTA
- PHD STUDENT
- ROBERT SEIRINGER GROUP
Morris Brooks graduated from the ISTA Grad School in 2023. During his time at the Seiringer group, he studied quantum systems involving large numbers of particles and their collective behavior. In 2021, he was the lead author on a paper on a new way of creating anyons, strange quasi particles, using rotating molecules, possibly aiding efforts to constructing a new kind of quantum computer. He was awarded the Outstanding PhD Thesis Award for his work at ISTA. He has since moved to the University of Zurich to continue his academic career.
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WHAT’S WRITTEN ON YOUR BUSINESS CARD?
My name is Morris Brooks. I do not have an up-to-date business card, but I would describe myself as a mathematician working in research.
WHAT’S YOUR SCIENTIFIC BACKGROUND?
When I finished high school, it was pretty clear that I wanted to have a career in academics. But at that time I didn’t know if I wanted to do mathematics or physics. I decided for mathematics, which I do not regret. But it was really at ISTA where I could finally unify my passion for those two subjects.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THE FUTURE?
I do aspire a career in academia. Especially, I want to use the things which I’ve learned here at ISTA and propagate them further. I think I won’t be happy outside much.
WHAT ROLE DID ISTA PLAY IN YOUR CAREER?
It was here at the Institute where I figured out what kind of research I want to do, and I cannot overestimate the impact it had on my career.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES OF ISTA?
For me, the most ordinary days here have been the most treasured memories. I go in the morning to the duck pond and take my breakfast and maybe go to lunch with the whole group afterward. And, you know, if I get stuck in my work in the afternoon, maybe I go for a walk in the hills of Klosterneuburg. I found that very relaxing.
CAN YOU GIVE THREE PIECES OF ADVICE TO CURRENT ISTA MEMBERS?
I think I have two good advices. The first thing is: I think what sets ISTA apart from other institutes is the interdisciplinary aspect. It is really draining to work outside your own field or outside your comfort zone. But I think it is very rewarding. And the second thing is: When you get stuck in your work, I think you should just stop what you’re doing and go outside. The nature here is beautiful. You should really enjoy it.
