What I do

I perform research in the areas of vapor-deposited coatings, high temperature ceramics, and ablative materials for Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) applications. I also make billets of Silicone Impregnated Reusable Ceramic Ablator (SIRCA), when needed. Materials such as nano-reinforced ablators are also part of my research interests.

Another part of my job is to oversee operations and safety in the laboratory. This includes managing resources, communicating and enforcing safety requirements, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. In addition to these things, I often troubleshoot analysis equipment and oversee equipment installation.

My career path

I graduated in May of 2001 with a B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Columbia University, and a B.A. in Management and Engineering from Claremont McKenna College. I was hired by ELORET Corp. in September of 2001 as a Junior Research Scientist. My first project involved sol-gel synthesis of silicon oxycarbide material.

A typical day

In the morning, I usually review literature related to my research or I take care of some lab administrative tasks. The morning's business also includes follow-up activities such as correspondence with subcontractors, facilities personnel, and project collaborators. Meeting participation is normally in the morning as well.

With those things taken care of, I can go into the laboratory and make progress on the highest-priority research. This may include activities such as: making samples, performing thermal analyses, or examining materials with the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). During the course of a day I will usually have to do some more lab administrative tasks such as troubleshooting equipment or ordering 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 to overcome, and problems to solve. All of the researchers in these labs are encouraged to pursue their interests, as they relate to TPS. I also like my co-workers, and enjoy the fairly independent working environment.

Advice for a student

I would advise students to make a firm decision about what they want to do and plan ahead. If you fail to plan, plan on failing. Be persistent, even stubborn. Your plans do not necessarily have to make sense to anyone but you. Even in the worst case, you will learn some valuable lessons from the experience of having followed through with your plans. That carries its own rewards, even if you change your mind later.