Shocks in space: student Adriaan explores the universe around protostars
Protostars, data science, and the James Webb Space Telescope—Adriaan Janssen’s curiosity knows no bounds. As a double bachelor’s student in Physics and Astronomy, he has truly found his calling, underscored by his nomination for the title of Leiden Science Young Talent 2024.
Adriaan Janssen’s passion for physics began in primary school, and in secondary school, it expanded to include a fascination with the universe and its stars. For his bachelor’s thesis, he investigated the environment surrounding a protostar, a celestial object destined to evolve into a fully-fledged star. His research relied on the unparalleled precision of data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
‘What makes this project special is that it combines many different fields,’ he explains. ‘Astrochemistry, statistical physics, the physics of dynamic systems, and data science—it brought a host of fascinating challenges.’
Shocks around protostars more intense than expected
Protostars eject matter from their centres in the form of two bipolar jets. These jets create shocks in the gas surrounding the protostar. Adriaan elaborates: ‘These shocks cause the surrounding gas to emit radiation. With measurements from the JWST, we can analyse that radiation. By comparing the observed radiation to a model, we can infer properties like temperature and density of the gas. The model simulates different environments around the protostar, and the best match between model and data helps us determine the composition and characteristics of the surrounding region.’
Adriaan studied the gas at various locations around the protostar BHR71. He demonstrated that the temperatures were high, producing strong shocks, while the densities were lower than previously reported in the literature.
Grateful for supportive supervisors
Adriaan attributes much of his success to the exceptional guidance he received. ‘I had three postdocs who were always there for me, and I met with them weekly. I appreciated how they still had so much enthusiasm for research. For instance, when I wanted to brainstorm with one of my supervisors, another—busy with something else at the time—asked if he could join in because he didn’t want to miss anything. Their encouragement motivated me to give it my all, and I’m deeply thankful for that.’
‘Adriaan was engaged,proactive and curious’
Professor Ewine van Dishoeck, one of his supervisors, praised not only Adriaan’s research achievements but also his dedication and work ethic. ‘Adriaan was always very engaged and curious, asking insightful questions. He was proactive in suggesting new ideas and literature, which enhanced the relevance of the project. His approach matched that of a much more advanced student. It was a pleasure to work with him!’
‘It’s important to address the aspects of your research that don’t go perfectly.’
‘I might pursue a PhD’
Beyond gaining an impressive foundation in physics and astronomy, Adriaan says his bachelor’s programme also taught him structured working methods, planning, and discipline. ‘I also learned that results don’t have to be perfect to be valuable. Highlighting the parts of your research that don’t go entirely as planned can actually be helpful for follow-up studies.’
Currently, Adriaan is continuing his journey in the research track of the Master’s in Astronomy. ‘I’m really enjoying it, and I’m considering pursuing a PhD. With a bit of luck, I’ll find a research project that suits me well and allows me to continue in academia—that would be amazing!’