İdil Doğa Türkmen

About Me

Hi! I'm an incoming physics student at Caltech with a passion for unraveling the mysteries of our cosmos through computational research and theoretical exploration.

My journey spans from simulating particle accelerators to collecting space debris, from playing clarinet to developing AI-powered applications. I believe the most profound discoveries happen at the intersection of disciplines.

As a Rise Fellow, I've dedicated myself to pushing the boundaries of what's possible—whether that's through machine learning applications in particle physics, creating sustainable solutions for space exploration, or bridging cultures through music and science communication.

When I'm not diving deep into research or practicing clarinet, you'll find me exploring quantum computing, crafting ceramic art, or developing innovative apps that make learning more accessible.

Research

Space Debris Collection via Electromagnets

Developed a theoretical framework for collecting space debris using electromagnetic forces and lunar gravity. Selected as one of 100 global winners from 80,000 applicants by Schmidt Futures and Rhodes Trust.

Machine Learning in Particle Physics

Mentored by Prof. Guillermo Goldsztein at Georgia Tech to predict razor kinematic variables in supersymmetric proton collision searches using advanced ML techniques.

Asteroid Orbit Calculation

Calculated the orbit of asteroid 1953 GA and predicted its future position using observational data from Morehead Observatory at UNC-Chapel Hill during the Summer Science Program.

Cyclotron Dynamics Simulation

Conducted computational physics research under Prof. Andrew Haas at NYU, simulating proton motion in cyclotrons using both classical and relativistic mechanics with Python.

Quark-Gluon Plasma Research

Authored an independent literature review on the very high energy state of matter, exploring the fundamental building blocks of our universe at extreme conditions.

Food Chemistry Analysis

Analyzed formaldehyde content in processed fruit juices using titration methods, investigating health implications and presenting findings to TÜBİTAK research competition.

Musical Journey

Conservatory Training

Selected as a high-potential student at Güher & Süher Pekinel Part-time Conservatory. I've been practicing clarinet performance, music theory, and harmony since 2020.

My musical journey has taken me from solo performances in Türkiye to ensemble work at The Loomis Chaffee School, where I was an active member of the Wind Ensemble and Chamber Music groups.

Notable Performances:

Camille Saint-Saëns Clarinet Sonata Op. 167 (2025)
Viktor's Tale by John Williams (2024)
Weber Clarinet Concertino (2023)

Camille Saint-Saëns - Clarinet Sonata in Eb Major, Op.167 - May 2025

Projects

Vocam - AI Language Learning

Developed an AI-powered vocabulary learning application featuring object detection technology. The app helps users learn new languages by identifying objects in real-time through their camera.

Visit Vocam →

Love Our Environment

Founded and manage an environmental activism platform with 8 international contributors. Organized cleanup events funded by a $400 Purdue University grant and created educational content.

Visit Website →

Ceramics & Visual Arts

Explore the intersection of art and the world through ceramic sculptures, including pieces like "Continuum of Libertea" that blend historical concepts with artistic expression.

View My Work →

Let's Connect

Interested in collaboration, research opportunities, or just want to chat about physics and music?

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"The universe is not only stranger than we imagine, it is stranger than we can imagine." - J.B.S. Haldane