Currently in his last year, Mario is a Mexican PhD student in Theoretical physics. His research focuses on cosmological and astrophysical aspects of string theory such as the origin of the universe and the nature of dark energy. In addition, he is the current president of the Mexican Society and is actively engaged in projects aimed at creating opportunities for Latin-American physicists.
Your journey to Cambridge
I completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physics at UNAM in Mexico City, one of the most prestigious universities in Latin America. Through considerable effort and with the invaluable support of professors, family, and friends, I was able to complete my studies and build a strong CV, one that allowed me to apply to Cambridge for PhD programme as competitive as any in the world.
Life at Eddies
What motivated you to choose your field of study?
I have always had an insatiable curiosity about how the Universe works, the world we live in, and the great mysteries of reality-not only from the scientific realm but also from a philosophical, social political perspective. In the end, I decided to study the science that seeks to answer the most fundamental questions, and given Cambridge’s rich scientific history and current leadership, I chose to pursue my doctoral studies here.
Are there any professors, mentors, or classmates who particularly inspire or influence you?
My supervisor, Fernando Quevedo, has always been an inspiration, not only as a scientist but also as human being. He’s not only one of the most prominent string theorists, but also one of the most genuinely humane people I have ever met in my life. He has not only contributed to science through his research but also directly supported the people who make science happen, founding research institutions, to assist developing countries and starting initiatives aimed to help underrepresented groups in science- always exhibiting great humanity and integrity.
St Edmund’s College has helped me since the moment I arrived in the UK. They have made me feel welcome and constantly supported me. Additionally, they have partially funded some of the travel expenses that have allowed me to present my research work in different conferences.
Shaping the future
What values are you learning at St Edmund’s College and how do you think your experiences at Cambridge are shaping you as a person?
Life in Cambridge is like a surreal utopia. A privilege I am truly grateful to have experienced, one that has undoubtedly shaped both my academic and personal growth. A place as magic like this will always be missed, but it has profoundly influenced the person I am today. In that way, I will always carry a piece of Cambridge and Eddies with me.
What are your plans beyond graduation and how do you see them contributing to a better future for individuals, societies and the world globally?
As a scientist, the future is uncertain in terms of where I will end up, as it is common to move to a different country after completing a PhD. However, I want to continue seeking answers to the questions I have had since childhood. Moreover, as a Mexican, I would also like to keep supporting Latin America as much as possible, helping to create more opportunities for talented individuals who face difficult circumstances and have limited opportunities and resources.
More about Mario’s research
Together with collaborators, Mario recently submitted a pre-print Statistical Analysis of Scientific Metrics in High Energy, Cosmology, and Astroparticle Physics in Latin America. They performed a comprehensive statistical analysis of key scientific metrics to evaluate the productivity and impact of research conducted in Latin American countries within these areas of physics.
It aims to empower scientists with insights into the significance of their contributions to both regional and global research. Moreover, it provides both researchers and policymakers with critical quantitative data, strengthening their understanding of the progress in scientific productivity over the years to better support scientific endeavours in Latin America.
