Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become an astrophysicist/astronomer/scientist?
I get it, either you’re a young student filled with anxiety and worry about your future career, or you’re a parent of a young student filled with anxiety and worry about their future career. Focus on the next steps. Do well in high school. Take the most challenging/technical courses you can get away with. Get into a good college. Repeat. Go out and seek research opportunities. Get into grad school. Repeat.
It turns out that there are essentially no jobs in science. No, it’s true, and I’m writing a book about it. But that’s not a bad thing. Let go of trying to become a professional scientist and just enjoy yourself. Pursue a PhD, or even a postdoc, and get to be on the cutting edge of knowledge for a few years. In the meantime, you’ll gain some awesome skills that will enable you to make serious coin out in the real world. See? Not a bad thing.
How do I become a science communicator?
No clue. I’m making it up as I go along. Do good work and put it where people can see it.
When does the next season of (insert favorite science show here) come out?
Honestly I usually find out the same time you do. I typically film something 6-12 months before it airs. But I always strive to post updates on my social media, so follow me there if you want the latest scoop.
What should I buy as my first telescope?
I have an interesting theory that explains All of Physics, can you read it?
No. If you want to do science, then do what every other scientist does and submit your work to a journal for vetting. If they’re not returning your calls, there’s a reason for that.
Can you SPEAK AT this event for free?
I am a professional science communicator. This is my job; this is how I pay my mortgage and feed my family. I believe that the public has a right to get access to science, which is why I release hours of content online, through various channels, absolutely for free, every single week. That said, I do a small number of gratis events every year, usually for non-profits, schools, and other organizations near and dear to my heart.
How do I get in touch with you?
You’re literally doing it right now.
i have a class research project. Can I interview you?
Sadly, no. Even though teachers are some of the busiest human beings on the planet, they consistently assign class projects that require their students to interview other incredibly busy human beings. I simply don’t have to the time to entertain all the requests I get for private interviews (several every week). These kinds of research projects are not really research. You do research by reading the available literature, coming to your own understanding, and expressing your own thoughts. Not by copying-and-pasting whatever random expert you find has to say. Teachers, please stop doing this.
Can we meet up for drinks?
Sorry, I’m busy tonight doing my hair.