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Sam DeCastro

Sam DeCastro

Sam DeCastro

September 4, 2024 by

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Email

sdecast1@vols.utk.edu

Mentors:

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Dr. Ivis Chaple-Gore
Tickle College of Engineering

Sam DeCastro

Title of Program

Nuclear and Radiochemistry

Hometown

Jacksonville, FL

Description of Program

This specialized field of study is the intersection of cutting-edge science and real-world applications. With humanity’s attempt to control and harness the power of the nucleus, more opportunities are needed to explore the frontiers of nuclear chemistry, delve into the mysteries of radiochemistry, and contribute to ground-breaking research projects that span energy production, environmental sustainability, and healthcare advances. The power of the nuclear reactor relies on chemists, working in labs, to explore uranium and treatments with radioisotopes; therefore, this unique program would be dedicated towards both nuclear chemistries, the study of nuclear processes, productions, and effects, and the field of radiochemistry. Topics for this program would include nuclear spectroscopy (analysis of isotopes, their properties, and their unique characteristics), applications of radioactive material in medicinal and laboratory settings, and the production and chemical separations of radioisotopes. Along with nuclear and radiochemistry topics, a background in general chemistry (organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical) and physics (quantum and nuclear) would be included. In the senior year, a lab/project would stand in as the design project, spanning both semesters, along with a lab for participation in current-topic research. This program would require constant dedication and effort to maintain good standing, with a level of rigor not often seen in undergraduate programs. This program would be the first of its kind, as no other university or institution offers this program at the undergraduate level.

Departmental Emphases

Nuclear Engineering, Chemistry, Physics

Plans After Graduation

Attending graduate school internationally and working at Oak Ridge National Laboratories.

Other Academic Interests

Audio Engineering, Quantum Physics

Prior Enrollment at Other Colleges or Universities

N/A

Study Abroad

N/A

Research Experience or Internships

High School Laboratory TA

Part-time Employment; Hobbies; Campus Clubs/Activities

Live Audio Mixing, Video Games, Summer Camp Leader

College Scholars Program

College of Arts and Sciences

Austin Peay Building 211
1404 Circle Drive
Knoxville TN 37996-1600

Phone: 865-974-3975
Email: scholars@utk.edu

UT College Scholars Program on Facebook

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
865-974-1000

The flagship campus of the University of Tennessee System and partner in the Tennessee Transfer Pathway.

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