Matthew Gerathy

Postdoctoral Research Fellow
CDM
University of Melbourne
Road-tripping Port Macquarie to Canberra (2022)

What do you do?

I try to detect and identify different types of radiation as accurately as possible and to use that information to investigate how things work.

How did you get to where you are today?

I’ve been drawn to STEM since primary school and have studied chemistry, physics, maths and biology ever since. I originally intended to go into chemistry but a great university course (and lecturer) drew me into nuclear physics and spectroscopy instead.

What’s the best thing about your role?

The best thing about my role is that I always get to work on something new. Different types of detector, radiation, analysis technique, software, etc. There’s always more to learn and I get constantly exposed to new ideas and skills.

What advice would you give to someone considering studying science?

It’s ok to study science without intending to pursue it as a career and you should stick with it as long as it’s something you enjoy and find interesting. The skills you learn will be invaluable no matter where you end up.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work I love to read (mostly sci-fi and fantasy), play board games, and am an avid swing dancer.