Tolu's interest in STEM began at a young age, always fascinated with the world and ways to improve it. He chose Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Maths at A-Level and went to Aberystwyth University to study Engineering Physics.
In July 2020, Tolu joined ISIS to develop elemental analysis software. When a muon goes into a sample, it gives off X-ray spectra unique to the elements present in the material, providing a non-invasive technique to determine what elements are present.
One of the more exciting projects Tolu has worked on involved looking at the composition of Roman coins, which reveals much about the economic and social conditions of the state at the time, particularly based on the percentage of silver content. Aside from cultural heritage items, the technique can also be used to look at electrical devices and batteries.
During the coronavirus pandemic, Tolu has both worked on site and remotely. He supports experiments on the beamline, such as by mounting test samples and cooling the detector. When working from home, he has been focusing on his own project. Tolu is designing a user interface which will allow scientists to rapidly and quickly identify the elements a sample is composed of.
What is the best part of your role?
I get to work on a wide range of things. So not only am I designing software, but I also get to run some experiments. On the other hand, one of the challenging parts of the role is learning some of the advanced muon science, as it was not something that I was familiar with before my placement.
What is your greatest achievement in your current role?
My greatest achievement is finding the efficiency of the detectors we work with and inventing new algorithms to analyse muon science data.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy learning about robotics. Recently, I joined a group of people who are using detectors to measure cosmic muons by looking at a map that tells them about muon activities across the world.
What would you like to do in the future?
I would like to do a PhD in quantum computing or semiconductors and have a job in research.
