A Summer of Discovery with SPS Intern MJ Keller
MJ Keller, 2025 SPS Intern
“This summer, I got to see firsthand how the questions we study in class turn into real scientific discovery. It’s one thing to learn the theory, and another entirely to see it applied to galaxies billions of light-years away. - MJ Keller, 2025 SPS Intern
Through the SPS summer internship program, physics undergraduates like MJ Keller are placed in organizations where they apply their knowledge and energy to meaningful assignments that advance the broader field of physics. Participating organizations assign senior staff mentors to guide each intern, while AIP’s Society of Physics Students run the program, and provide orientation, group activities, and community-building opportunities throughout the summer.
MJ Keller spent their 2025 summer in the SPS internship program as a Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) intern, exploring galaxy formation and evolution in the early universe. Working with their mentor, Dr. Nimisha Kumari, they focused on high-redshift galaxies, analyzing data from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and surveys such as ALPINE, which provides measurements of [CII] luminosities, star formation rates (SFRs), stellar masses, and dust extinction.
During their research, MJ compared different methods for calculating star formation rates. They found that SFRs derived from spectral energy distribution modeling produced clear relationships with stellar mass, while hydrogen-alpha–derived rates gave inconsistent results. These discrepancies highlighted the challenges in interpreting galaxy properties and emphasized the importance of integrating multiple observational techniques and refining modeling methods.
Beyond their research, MJ connected with the broader physics community, learning from colleagues and participating in discussions on the epoch of reionization, cosmic distances, and the evolution of early galaxies. They also balanced their work with exploration of DC’s scientific and cultural offerings, from the Smithsonian museums to live orchestral performances, which enriched their summer experience.
MJ’s internship illustrates why the SPS summer internship program is so valuable. By providing students with hands-on experience in professional research settings, the program bridges the gap between classroom learning and real scientific practice. Interns gain technical expertise, mentorship, and exposure to complex problems in physics, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in science and ensuring a pipeline of skilled, confident future physicists.
