What I do

I perform research in the areas of physical vapor coatings, and I also make Silicone Impregnated Reusable Ceramic Ablator (SIRCA) when needed. I conduct research in other materials such as nanotechnology ablators.

I oversee safety aspects of the laboratory including safety requirements, environmental regulations, and I manage resources. In addition, I troubleshoot analysis equipment and oversee equipment installation.

My career path

I have a B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Columbia University and a B.A. in Management and Engineering from Claremont McKenna College. I graduated in May 2001. I was hired by ELORET in September 2001 as a Junior Research Scientist. I started working on a project with sol-gel synthesis of Silicon Oxicarbide material. I initially agreed to take on overseeing the laboratory to help out. Recently I received the NASA Ames Safety Award for my work in improving the health and safety in the Thermal Protection Systems Material Laboratory.

A typical day

In the morning, I either review literature related to my research or I perform a safety procedure or decide on a safety plan. I also write correspondence to subcontractors, facilities, and to project collaborators. Meeting participation is normally in the morning also.

After that, I go to the laboratory and make progress on the highest-priority research: either by making samples, conducting thermal analysis or by performing a static oxidation test on the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). I may also troubleshoot equipment or order supplies.

What I like about my job

I like the variety of both performing research and administrative duties. The research we do is very interesting from a materials perspective as there are always a lot of challenges, with problems to solve. I have been encouraged to pursue my interests, and where there is a will, there is always a way, even in lean times. I like my co-workers and the fact that I can work fairly independently with no-one "lording" over me.

Advice for a student

I would advise you to decide on what you want to do and plan ahead. If you fail to plan, plan on failing. Be persistent, even stubborn. It doesn't have to make sense to anyone but you. Even in the worst case, you will have learned something and been rewarded, even if you change your mind later.