10/23/2019 James Sopkin
Written by James Sopkin
One way NPRE is celebrating Graduate Student Appreciation Week this week is by highlighting the work of some of our graduate students. Katherine Hepler conducts research in experimental radiochemistry with Adjunct Prof. Michael Kaminski.
What previous degrees do you hold and when and where did you receive them?
I have a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Missouri (2015) and a M.S. in Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering with a focus in Nuclear Power from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2017).
What are your research interests?
I enjoy radiochemistry, waste management, and application-based projects.
Who is your advisor?
Dr. Michael Kaminski (NPRE adjunct professor)
On what project are you currently working?
I help characterize technologies for rapid recovery following a wide-spread radiological dispersal event. Specifically, my dissertation explores the relationship between recovery logistics and observed decontamination efficacy. By understanding this relationship and how it changes for different decontamination strategies, we can optimize recovery efforts.
What funding/fellowship is supporting you?
I am on an NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission) Fellowship.
What fellowships have you had in the past?
I was a (U.S. Department of Energy Integrated University Program) IUP Graduate Fellow for three years, an (Institute of Nuclear Power Operators/National Academy for Nuclear Training) INPO/NANT Fellow the year prior to starting the IUP Fellowship, and received a Roy G. Post Foundation Graduate Scholarship for the 2019-2020 academic year.
When do you expect to earn your PhD?
I would like to defend in early December.
What are your career goals?
Have you heard of the phrase, “the best laid plans often go awry?” After experiencing this sentiment on numerous occasions, I exchanged specific career goals for a process-oriented mindset. I put my best effort into performing the task at hand, as well as cultivating technical and soft skills. This mentality allows me approach opportunities with an open mind and more flexibility.
Why did you choose NPRE?
I was determined to do experimental radiochemistry in graduate school, and Dr. Kaminski provided me with that opportunity. Although I envisioned myself working on a project related to nuclear waste management, I have enjoyed working on his projects related to national security.
Why did you choose Illinois?
I grew up an Illini fan, campus is only a couple hours from my hometown, and I had the opportunity to continue playing college golf.