What I do

I conduct materials and chemistry research for development of thermal protection systems (TPS). As the only chemist in the Branch I offer a different perspective on material development. Sometimes I troubleshoot a chemistry related problem by suggesting an alternative reagent or catalyst in a system. A few efforts I have worked on include synthesizing precursors to ceramic materials, making adhesives for TPS, and using additives to enhance certain properties of ablators. I am heavily influenced by my TSM colleagues and find myself working on, and thinking about, materials science at least as much as chemistry.

Recently, I have been involved in work to determine various properties of candidate materials for the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV). I spend a lot of time working with others to decide the best way to measure thermal and mechanical properties of each unique material being considered for CEV, and I plan how to make it happen.

My career path

My high school chemistry teacher got me very excited about the subject, and in college, chemistry class was the highlight of my day. I was involved in undergraduate research (in lanthanide chemistry), where I learned a lot about laboratory techniques, and how to do research. That work resulted in my first publication in a chemistry journal. With this research experience it became clear that I wanted to pursue graduate studies in chemistry. I received a B.S. in Chemistry from UC Irvine, and went on to get a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from UC Berkeley.

As is the nature of graduate school education, I developed highly specialized research skills and became an expert in a narrow field (silylene chemistry). My work involved making and studying the chemistry of metal-silicon double bonds. I was hired at ELORET in April 2002 here at NASA, and since then I have developed a broader background. I now use all of my critical thinking and laboratory skills to approach a variety of research and development challenges.

A typical day

Usually I spend my mornings looking over journal articles and research reports, attending project meetings, or planning the day's experiments. Later in the day I go to the lab to make samples or analyze them by one of several techniques such as scanning electron microscopy or x-ray diffraction.

Currently I spend most of my time coordinating the CEV material property testing effort. I consult with various NASA experts to discuss ideal properties for candidate materials or testing techniques. I talk to test laboratories to determine their capabilities, and also plan our measurement activities.

What I like about my job

Our Branch is a great place to be; the work is stimulating and the people are fun, experienced and capable. This makes a big difference. It's very exciting to be part of team working on a project that helps enable space exploration and the advancement of knowledge of our universe. There are few applications that are as exciting as the one we work on.

I also like the academic feel at Ames; there are seminars to attend in many different areas. I can speak with experts in areas ranging from nanoscience to astronomy to cognitive psychology. There are also work-sponsored clubs for outside activities such as sailing and ballroom dancing. I met my wife in the Ames Sailing Club!

Advice for a student

It is important to explore a lot of different subjects early on before deciding what you want to focus on; a broad exposure will help you to make informed career decisions. I believe you have to pursue what you find most interesting and make your own path. The best career is one that allows you to do something you enjoy so that it's not just a job.