Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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LILA BRAFF

Santa Cruz,CA

Summary

Driven physics student with a foundation in theoretical and observational physics. Passionate about solving complex challenges and pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. Possesses deep curiosity and an analytical mindset, fueling a blend of creativity and rigorous inquiry. Brings a unique perspective to tackling mathematical and scientific challenges, optimizing processes, and overcoming obstacles due to a background in the arts. Thrives in collaborative environments, leveraging social skills to connect with others and drive projects forward. Embraces both success and failure as essential components of growth, always focused on contributing to groundbreaking advancements.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Research Assistant (Independent Study)

Stefano Profumo
06.2023 - Current
  • Maintain open lines of communication with 2 project leads and current research partner for effective collaboration on common goals.
  • Attend bi-weekly meetings with team to discuss project updates and seek feedback on challenges faced.
  • Through analysis and data collection of ~100 associated research articles
  • Contributing to writing and publication of "Ultra Self-Interacting Dark Matter (uSIDM)" research paper.

Observer

Lick Observatory
04.2022 - Current
  • Preform both remote (VPN server) and in-person overnight operations of Nickel Telescope
  • Adhering to 30 or more targets and specific nightly instructions
  • Maintaining focus on time elapsed, filter changes, documentation of data, quality of images, weather conditions, next targets, and nearby telescope
  • Reaching out when help is needed to maximize efficiency while collecting data
  • Teaching new team members how to operate the telescope and patiently preparing them for their checkout procedures
  • Report findings and highlight important aspects of the night

Research Assistant (Independent Study)

Ryan Foley
04.2023 - Current
  • Gained proficiency in programming software (Jupyter Notebook, Python, Anaconda, etc.)
  • Developed skills in various research methodologies (GitHub, StackOverflow, etc)
  • Applied critical thinking skills when troubleshooting issues
  • Attendance and participation in bi-weekly team meetings
  • Individual meeting with lead researcher, Ryan Foley.
  • 20 hours of independent work

Intern

Anti-pest
07.2024 - Current
  • Worked with knowledgeable professionals to grow understanding of business principles, construction standards, and safety precautions
  • Sorted and organized files, spreadsheets, and reports.
  • Gained hands-on experience in Excel, software program

Membership Sales

Toadal Fitness
08.2022 - 06.2023
  • Contributed to gym''s overall success by consistently meeting or exceeding personal performance targets in areas such as 3 membership sales, customer satisfaction, and facility maintenance.

Mathematics Tutor

Redondo Beach
08.2018 - 07.2021
  • Employed creative problem-solving approaches during hour long lessons that helped increase interest in mathematics among students.
  • Self-prepared materials based on school math curriculum.
  • Met with parents to discuss student progress and address concerns.
  • Enhanced student understanding by incorporating real-world examples and problem-solving techniques into tutoring sessions.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Astrophysics

University of California Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA
06.2026

Skills

  • Physics (5A,5B,5C,5D), Calculus (11A,11B,19A,19B,23A,23B), Classical mechanics, Quantum mechanic, Differential equations and linear algebra
  • Programming (python, excel)
  • Telescope operation
  • Research and analysis
  • Public Speaking
  • Teamwork and Collaboration (in all independent and group settings)
  • Time management and organization
  • Passionate and open-minded
  • Complex Problem-Solving
  • Curious and self-aware
  • Creativity and Innovation

Timeline

Intern

Anti-pest
07.2024 - Current

Research Assistant (Independent Study)

Stefano Profumo
06.2023 - Current

Research Assistant (Independent Study)

Ryan Foley
04.2023 - Current

Membership Sales

Toadal Fitness
08.2022 - 06.2023

Observer

Lick Observatory
04.2022 - Current

Mathematics Tutor

Redondo Beach
08.2018 - 07.2021

Bachelor of Science - Astrophysics

University of California Santa Cruz

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LILA BRAFF