Alton Goldfield is a dual-major at UNT working on a Grad Track program to earn his bachelor's in Physics (with a Concentration in Astronomy/Astrophysics) and Mechanical & Energy Engineering. He is currently working with a research team led by Dr. Guru Khalsa (Physics) and Dr. Sameehan Joshi (Materials Science & Engineering) that focuses on developing industrial-grade aerospace materials compatible with additive manufacturing processes in space/space-like conditions.

“This research project gives me the opportunity to apply my hybrid background in both physics and mechanical engineering, and I'm able to do meaningful research and experimentation for a very interesting research topic that encompasses both engineering and space applications,” said Alton, who is also working on a thesis project with physics lecturer Dr. Megan Nieberding on the analysis of biosignatures on exoplanet atmospheres. “My goal at UNT and beyond is to research 3D printed materials and study the effects of exposure to outer space and radiation from the Sun.”

 

In addition to pursuing these majors and research, Alton also earned a minor in Mathematics and is currently working on two certificates in Additive & Digital Manufacturing and Electromechanical Systems & Mechatronics, including the Semiconductor Microcredential. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Club, Materials Advantage (MA) Club, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) Club, the Society of Plastic Engineers (SPE) Club, and the Society of Physics Students (SPS) club.

 

“These organizations and clubs have not only influenced my academic career, but have also led me to make new friends, reconnect with old ones, and connect with other people in the engineering world,” said Alton. “I plan on starting my own club next semester as a UNT Chapter for the Society of Manufacturing Engineers.”

 

After completing his degrees and certifications, Alton plans to go to graduate school to earn a doctorate in astrophysics and hopes to work at NASA as a research scientist focusing on exoplanetology with a focus on atmospheric characterization.
 
"Depending on what university I go to, I could potentially see if there is a graduate program that can lead me to getting a doctorate in both astrophysics and aerospace engineering,” he said. “Even now, while I have a general idea of what I want to do in the future, I am still working out what will happen next in my academic and professional career.”
 
When he’s not busy with coursework and research, Alton enjoys playing video games and is interested in learning new languages, drawing, and playing music.
 
You can support our outstanding students like Alton in the UNT Physics program by giving to the Physics’ Discretionary Fund at UNT here: https://one.unt.edu/giving/college-of-science