In a field often defined by precision and data, Allison Probert found her most meaningful discovery outside the lab.
Originally from North Carolina, she came to the University of Florida in 2022 to pursue her Ph.D. in nuclear engineering. She quickly found not only world-class research opportunities but a community that supported and inspired her.
Major: Ph.D. Student, Nuclear engineering
Advisor: Assel Aitkaliyeva, associate professor, and Justin Watson, assistant professor
“My favorite part about UF has been the strong sense of community,” Probert said. “The faculty, staff and fellow students have shaped my journey and offered guidance, encouragement and support through the challenges of graduate research.”
That network has helped Probert flourish as a researcher in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering’s Nuclear Engineering program. Now in her fourth year, she was recently selected to participate in the 2025 Global Rising Stars Workshop in Stockholm, Sweden. This honor recognizes emerging women leaders in nuclear science and related fields.
“Allison is one of the most dedicated and capable doctoral students I’ve had the privilege to mentor,” said Assel Aitkaliyeva, Ph.D., UF associate professor and Probert’s co-adviser. “Her selection as a Rising Star is a well-deserved recognition of both her scientific talent and her commitment to advancing the future of nuclear energy.”
Hosted by KTH Royal Institute of Technology, the Rising Stars Workshop connects early-career women across science, technology, education and policy to the global nuclear community. Participants receive professional development, mentorship and opportunities to collaborate within cohort groups designed to strengthen international ties and foster leadership.
Here’s more from Probert on her journey, research and life beyond the lab:
Where did you grow up and how did you become interested in nuclear engineering?
I grew up in the Carolinas, outside of Charlotte, N.C. I studied physics as an undergraduate, where I worked with a visiting professor on a medical physics research project. That experience introduced me to characterizing radioactive material and guided my journey to graduate school.
I decided on UF after attending the Spring Visit, a Ph.D. recruiting program, where I was instantly impressed with the faculty, program and students.
How did you find out about the Rising Stars Workshop, and what was your reaction when you learned you’d been selected?
I’m currently an intern at the Idaho National Laboratory, and my mentor introduced me to the opportunity and worked with my department to nominate me. I felt deeply honored and grateful to be selected and was eager to share this news with everyone who made it possible. This forum represents a unique opportunity to grow as a researcher, and I’m excited to contribute to and learn from such a distinguished group.
How have your faculty advisers influenced your graduate experience?
I am co-advised by Dr. Assel Aitkaliyeva and Dr. Justin Watson. Their mentorship has been foundational to my development as a researcher. They’ve guided my transition into the nuclear field and equipped me with the skills and confidence to grow as an independent scientist. Dr. Aitkaliyeva has been instrumental in my training in experimental nuclear fuels characterization and has connected me with a network of researchers while supporting me as I pursued national lab internships and grant opportunities.
How will you make an impact in your field after completing your Ph.D.?
I hope to continue advancing research in nuclear fuels. This is an exciting time for the field, with next-generation reactor technologies on the horizon. I want to contribute to the development, qualification and commercialization of innovative fuel systems.
When you’re not doing research, what are you reading, listening to or watching these days?
I love unwinding with a good competition show: “Survivor,” “Top Chef” — even “Dancing with the Stars.” I love following the contestants’ journeys week to week.