Star gazer to published scientist: UWC Atlantic student Devi’s work is published in the Pioneer Research Journal
UWC Atlantic is proud to announce that Devi, a second-year student originally from Slovenia, has had her physics research paper selected for publication in the globally recognised Pioneer Academics program. Her paper has also been nominated for inclusion in the highly selective Pioneer Research Journal, an international publication that highlights exceptional undergraduate-level research conducted by secondary school students.
Out of more than 1,700 submissions worldwide, only 1.8% were chosen for publication in the journal in the 2024 academic year, a testament to the exceptional quality of Devi’s work and her academic perseverance.
Working under the mentorship of Professor David Kaplan, a leading cosmologist from Johns Hopkins University, Devi conducted original research that used the orbital patterns of stars near the Milky Way’s central black hole to estimate the density of dark matter, an invisible but fundamental force shaping our universe. Her project was part of an advanced track within the Pioneer program, which accepted just four students globally into this rigorous cohort.
The Pioneer Research Journal employs a dual evaluation process: a double-blind review conducted by a multidisciplinary panel of over 40 university faculty members, and an equity-based teacher assessment that considers how students pushed beyond the opportunities typically available in their local high school context.
Devi’s work stood out not just for its academic rigour, but also for her determination. When critical observational data was not publicly accessible, she took the initiative to contact a PhD researcher in Spain to secure the data she needed, demonstrating the kind of collaborative spirit that defines scientific inquiry.
“We’re incredibly proud of Devi,” said Naheed Bardai, Principal at UWC Atlantic, “Her commitment to pushing intellectual boundaries is inspiring. This is the kind of independent thought process and research skills that the College encourages in all its students.”
Devi, who grew up on a rural farm in Slovenia, will continue her academic journey at Harvard University in the US this autumn, where she has been awarded a full scholarship to study physics, testament to her scientific prowess.
Devi’s story, from gazing at meteor showers in the Slovenian countryside to having her paper on dark matter recognised on the international stage, reflects the transformative impact of a UWC Atlantic education and the power of nurturing bold, curious minds.
See all the Pioneer Research Journal articles here