After graduating from QASMT with a QCAA Distinguished Academic Achievers Award, Ewan commenced the Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours) at the University of Queensland (UQ), as he was exploring opportunities for a career in corporate finance. He was awarded a UQ Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship and became a scholar of the Andrew N. Liveris Academy for Innovation and Leadership.
During his first year at UQ, Ewan decided to change fields and pursue physics. He successfully applied to Balliol College, University of Oxford, to study a four-year integrated Master of Physics. He made this decision for several reasons, including the intellectual stimulation of studying physics, the interdisciplinary fields to which physics opens doors, and the opportunity to immerse himself in the culture, architecture and minds of Oxford. In the second and third years of his degree, he received the Department of Physics Scott Prize for ranking first in his cohort of roughly 200 physics students.
In addition to his academic study at Oxford, Ewan undertook two research placements in the University, with the Phase Modulation Interferometry and the Oxford Ion Trap (quantum computing) Groups. These experiences developed Ewan's interest in mathematical investigation and algorithmic thinking, informing his decision to transfer to the competitive Master of Mathematical and Theoretical Physics for his fourth year of study. In this Masters program, he learned from world-leading professors in the fields of quantum condensed matter theory, string theory and general relativity. Ewan graduated with Distinction and received a Mathematical Institute academic prize for ranking second in his cohort.
Ewan secured a fully funded DPhil in Theoretical Physics placement at Oxford, commencing in October 2026. His research will focus on the quantum mechanical properties of novel materials, with the aim of pursuing a career in superconductivity, quantum technologies and quantum information. Furthermore, Ewan has a longstanding passion for supporting physics education and will continue to undertake teaching and outreach activities during the DPhil program.
Reflecting on his time at QASMT, Ewan said that amongst the most valuable aspects of his experience was how likeminded and driven the students are. He derived much of his motivation for study from his peers and teachers. The calibre of the teachers and their encouragement for students to be curious and independent learners is how Ewan formed his love of physics. The extent of extracurriculars that the IB Diploma requires, and the leadership opportunities that QASMT offers, including his time as UQ Science Ambassador and Academy Captain, strengthened Ewan's applications for competitive academic and research positions.