
Welcome to the digital newsletter from the University of Florida Department of Materials Science & Engineering and Nuclear Engineering Program. Each semester, you will receive an email highlighting department updates and successes. We are excited to connect with you.
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Fall 2024 Message from the Chair
Dear colleagues, alums, supporters and friends, As the fall semester concludes, this newsletter offers a chance to highlight some of the remarkable accomplishments across our department. From our faculty’s…
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Welcoming the newest members of our faculty – Spring 2025
The Department of Materials Science & Engineering is thrilled to welcome three new faculty members: Renato S. Navarro, Ph.D., Ravit Silverstein, Ph.D., and Yijia Gu, Ph.D. They have joined the department as assistant professors in Spring 2025. These new hires bring exceptional expertise and diverse experiences, which will enhance the…
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Consortium for Nuclear Forensics Hosts Inaugural Workshop at UF
The Consortium for Nuclear Forensics (CNF) recently held its first workshop, bringing together more than 100 attendees via livestream and in-person. The two-day event saw participants from 16 universities, seven national laboratories, and multiple government agencies and international collaborators, including the United Kingdom’s Atomic Weapons Establishment. The workshop’s dynamic agenda…
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Rising to the Top: Aitkaliyeva Among ANS’s 40 Under 40 Leaders
Assel Aitkaliyeva, Ph.D., has been named to the American Nuclear Society’s (ANS) inaugural NuclearNews 40 Under 40 list. This recognition celebrates her as one of the most innovative young professionals advancing the field of nuclear science and engineering. The NuclearNews 40 Under 40 list highlights leaders who are driving innovation…
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New Leadership, Proven Expertise
University of Florida’s Department of Materials Science & Engineering welcomes Michael Tonks and Josephine Allen to key leadership roles. We are pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Tonks, Ph.D., as the interim chair of the Department of Materials Science & Engineering (MSE) at UF. Tonks joined the MSE faculty…
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UF and SREB Create Groundbreaking AI Pathway for South Carolina Students
University of Florida Partners with Southern Regional Education Board to Develop High School Artificial Intelligence Pathway Curriculum in South Carolina The University of Florida (UF) is proud to announce its partnership with the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) to develop a comprehensive four-course Artificial Intelligence (AI) curriculum for high school…
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Shaping the Future of Nuclear Energy
As the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, the University of Florida Training Reactor is emerging as a cornerstone for nuclear education, research, and outreach.
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Beyond the Classroom: Geothermal Adventures in Iceland
Brooke Lastinger’s academic journey is a testament to the power of exploring new frontiers. An undergraduate student in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering (MSE), Lastinger found her path through a combination of mentorship, research opportunities and following her passion. Her decision on a major was inspired by advice…







