Meena Said
About Meena Said
Meena Said is a Staff Scientist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, specializing in the chemistry of actinides with applications to the nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear forensics. She has extensive research experience, having worked at various prestigious institutions including the University of Notre Dame and the Smithsonian Institution.
Current Role at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Meena Said serves as a Staff Scientist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, a position she has held since 2023. In this role, she focuses on research related to the chemistry of actinides, particularly in the context of the nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear forensics. Her expertise in this area contributes to the laboratory's mission of enhancing national security through advanced scientific research.
Previous Experience at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Prior to her current role, Meena Said worked at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as a Postdoctoral Researcher from 2021 to 2023. Additionally, she completed two Seaborg Summer Internships in 2019 and 2020, each lasting two months. These internships provided her with valuable experience in a research environment focused on nuclear science and technology.
Education and Expertise in Geology and Earth Sciences
Meena Said earned her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Earth Science from the University of Notre Dame, where she studied from 2016 to 2021. Prior to that, she obtained a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geology from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, studying from 2013 to 2016. Her educational background equips her with a strong foundation in geology and physics, which supports her current research in actinide chemistry.
Research Experience at University of Notre Dame
During her time at the University of Notre Dame, Meena Said held the position of Graduate Student Researcher from 2016 to 2021. In this capacity, she utilized microscopic and spectroscopic techniques to conduct her research. Additionally, she was a Ph.D. Candidate at the university from 2019 to 2021, further developing her skills and knowledge in her field.
Internship Experience at Smithsonian Institution
In 2015, Meena Said participated in a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) internship at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. This three-month internship allowed her to gain hands-on experience in research, contributing to her overall academic and professional development.