Speaker

Daniel Carleton is a PhD student in Physics at the University of Alberta specializing in plasma physics and laser plasma interactions. His research focuses on developing advanced ray tracing and theoretical models for diagnosing and understanding parametric instabilities in high energy-density plasmas. Beyond his research, He is committed to supporting and improving the graduate student experience. As an active member of the Graduate Physics Student Association (GPSA), he has represented students on departmental and faculty committees, participated in faculty hiring processes, and played a key role in organizing the annual GPSA symposium to strengthen connections between students, alumni, industry partners, and researchers. His work in student leadership focuses on advocating for transparent communication, fostering a supportive academic community, and ensuring that graduate students’ voices are heard in decision-making spaces. He is passionate about mentorship, community building, and helping students navigate the challenges and successes of graduate studies. He aims to create an environment where all graduate students feel connected, supported, and empowered to thrive both academically and personally