Hayley Britz
The HLF is an annual weeklong networking conference for which 200 students in Mathematics and Computer Science disciplines are internationally selected to interact with recipients of the most esteemed awards in their fields (laureates). This presents an unparalleled opportunity to connect with and be mentored and encouraged by these recipients, says Hayley.
Hayley started her master’s studies at the University’s CHRTEM (Centre for High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy) this year.
Her research comprises using computer simulations to study how hydrogen atoms move through iron at the atomic level under mechanical strain.
This research helps improve the safety and reliability of materials used in clean and sustainable nuclear and hydrogen energy technologies, she says. Her supervisors are Professor Jaco Olivier, Dr Hlanganani Nyembe and Dr Genevéve Marx.
Hayley expects the HLF to be a transformative "masterclass" in which she can gain knowledge on both techniques and the intuition or philosophy of problem-solving.
“I believe that I will find inspiration and direction for my current and future studies, build confidence in my ability to confer meaningfully and possibly discover new interests by engaging with peers and laureates.
She says she is “profoundly grateful and fortunate to be given this prestigious opportunity” and looks forward to “meeting people with diverse interests and backgrounds and visiting Germany”.
Hayley wants to follow a career in academia. “Working as a practical demonstrator and tutor in the Physics Department, I find teaching especially enjoyable and gratifying; it has taught me much about science communication and collaboration (understanding or solving subtly nuanced problems from different valid perspectives). And I believe that the best part of doing research is sharing it with others”, she says.
In 2025, Hayley received the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for the Best First-Degree student overall at the University's Academic Achievers Awards ceremony.