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Amber Elinsky.

After graduating from Lycoming College with a physics bachelor’s degree in 2023, I am pursuing an advanced degree. But not in physics—in science and religion.

As an undergraduate I spent two weeks doing research at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom with Michael E. Heyes, an associate professor of religion at Lycoming. He was working on an upcoming book, and I assisted with collecting sources such as the journal of John Wickens, a friend and roommate of Sir Isaac Newton. The journal transcribed Newton’s religious views, and it fascinated me that a pivotal figure in physics could hold such devoutly religious beliefs.

Shortly after this experience, I completed a senior thesis on the apparent conflict between physics and Christianity. Specifically, I explored how physics textbooks often omit the influence of religion on historical scientists (therefore suggesting a requirement to choose between physics and religion) and how this limits students' understanding of the field’s fundamental origins. I found this interdisciplinary experience exciting because it allowed me to explore my varied interests from different perspectives. That’s what led me to pursue an advanced degree in the area. 

I knew I wanted to study abroad for graduate school—I love to travel—so while researching in the UK with Dr. Heyes, I took the opportunity to explore more of the region and its universities. Admittedly, I have always longed to explore Scotland, and luckily, I found a master of science degree program in science and religion at the University of Edinburgh. I met with the program director, Rev. Dr. Michael Fuller, and quickly decided to apply.

In the Science and Religion program, I explore how scientific disciplines interact with Christianity. Subjects such as the metaphysics of quantum mechanics, biblical issues with Darwinism, the aesthetics of mathematics, and the definition of human uniqueness are weekly discussion topics. I approach them through the lenses of philosophy, physics, literature, history, and others. The one-year program is heavily discussion based and culminates with a dissertation on a topic of my choice. I’m combining my interest in the physical sciences with my desire to learn more about nature religions, or neo-paganism, by exploring the social concept of nature on Earth through that lens. For its relevance to current affairs, I’m assessing whether a neo-paganistic understanding of nature is applicable to Mars, an important question with regard to the Mars colonization project.

Although a niche area, studying science and religion at the master’s level has allowed me to hone a range of transferrable skills. Through this program and my physics education, I have been trained in skills such as problem solving, data analysis, literary analysis, adaptability, and communication, both within STEM (along with its jargon) and many of the social sciences. In addition, the master's content knowledge enables me to understand the religious and historical perspectives of a wide variety of people from a multitude of backgrounds and beliefs, creating the opportunity for more holistic professional relationships and networking experiences. After completing my degree, I aim to put these skills to work in a technical writing or project management career.

Attending graduate school outside of the United States has been an amazing experience. In meeting and creating friendships with people from all over the world and learning to navigate foreign countries and cultures on my own, I find myself developing both academically and personally. I continue to find that embracing a journey unique to my interests brings new, enriching opportunities each day. It inspires me to share my story with the hope that you will be encouraged to explore your unique path as well.