Two University of Sydney PhD students, Dylan Theron and Isaac Gill, took centre stage at Sancta this week, captivating an audience of peers, alumni, and staff with their cutting-edge research in astrophysics and biomedical engineering.
At the latest instalment of Sancta Speaks, Dylan presented his work on turbulent gas discs in the early universe, while Isaac outlined his research into the development of biomechanical arms at the intersection of engineering and medicine.
A full Lower Common Room for Sancta Speaks: Science with Dylan and Isaac.
The event drew a full house and sparked lively discussion, with attendees ranging from undergraduates to senior academics.
“Dylan and Isaac’s presentations in astrophysics and biomedical engineering, respectively, were phenomenal and completely captivated our community of aspiring scholars,” said Pippa Fitzgerald, Sancta’s Dean of Students, who hosted the evening.
She said the highlight was the exchange between presenters and audience members.
“It was heartwarming to see members of our undergraduate and postgraduate cohort coming up with insightful questions to ask and connecting with each other across university faculties,” she said. “Many of us are eager to hear how their research shall progress over the next few years – so expect an encore.”
PhD student Dylan presenting his research on turbulent gas discs in the early universe.
Dylan’s astrophysics research explores how turbulent gas discs shaped the formation of galaxies and planetary systems, helping scientists better understand the origins of the universe.
Isaac’s work focuses on applying mechanical engineering to medical challenges, with the aim of creating biomechanical arms that can enhance mobility and quality of life.
The Sancta Speaks series has become a recent, but well-supported addition of the College’s academic calendar, offering students a platform to share their research with a wider College and university community.
PhD student Isaac presenting his research on biomechanical arms at the intersection of engineering and medicine.
To receive news updates and invitations to future Sancta Speaks events, please subscribe to our mailing list.
Meet the speakers
Dylan Theron
Dylan Theron undertook the Bachelor of Science in both Computation and Applied Mathematics as well as Investment and Corporate Finance from the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa. He proceeded to study a Master of Sciences in Applied Mathematics at the University of Cape Town and his thesis title was “Application of the Lagrangian descriptors method to Hamiltonian systems with emphasis to models of barred galaxies”. Turning his gaze to the sky, Dylan is currently undertaking the Doctor of Philosophy in Physics at the University of Sydney where he is exploring turbulent gas discs in the early universe.
Isaac Gill
Isaac Gill studied the Bachelor of Medical Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours) at the University of Newcastle. He is currently undertaking the Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Sydney where he is exploring the intersection and application of mechanical engineering with medicine in the development of biomechanical arms.
Hero image (L-R): Dylan Theron, Pippa Fitzgerald, Isaac Gill, Hayden Edwards.
