Sam DeCastro
Title of Program: Nuclear and Radiochemistry
E-mail Address: sdecast1@vols.utk.edu
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Year: Sophomore
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2026
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
Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. Ivis Chaple-Gore (TCE NE Department)
Plans After Graduation (career, graduate/professional school, etc.): 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 Experiences or Internships: High School Laboratory TA
Part-time Employment; Hobbies; Campus Clubs/Activities: Live Audio Mixing, Video Games, Summer Camp Leader