Thomas Gilchrist is an undergraduate student at Northwestern University, currently pursuing an interdisciplinary degree in Applied Mathematics, Physics, Economics, and the Integrated Science Program in the McCormick School of Engineering. With foundations in the hard sciences and fine arts, Thomas applies both analytical thinking and creative vision to his work, embodying Northwestern's tenet of whole-brain engineering. Thanks to his affiliations in mathematics, film, and music, Thomas boasts an Erdős-Bacon-Sabbath number of 12.
Thomas currently conducts research at Northwestern's Mathematical Modeling of Complex Systems Lab under the direction of Professor Danny Abrams (director of Northwestern Institute on Complex Systems, NICO). His research focuses on collaboration networks among scientific researchers using network theory approaches to Python-based analysis. His previous independent research on water conservation in solar cell sanitation was presented at the American Chemical Society Colloids and Surface Science Symposium and was submitted to the Langmuir Journal.
Beyond academic pursuits, Thomas is a classically trained musician (piano, cello, and composition) and multimedia creator. He worked with the NeuroSalon initiative to blend scientific communication with creative outreach, composing for large-scale community neuroscience exhibits, and conducted similar outreach work as a media and marketing intern through the Lehigh University Mountaintop Summer Experience. He has also worked for the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, both performing piano and mixing audio. Thomas is an active member of Northwestern's Quiz Bowl team and University Christian Ministry, leads a small group bible study, and enjoys tennis, skiing, origami, and curling up with a good book.