Sam Manuel
About Sam Manuel
Sam Manuel is a Postdoctoral R&D Associate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, specializing in microstructure characterization and mechanical testing of irradiated materials. He has a strong academic background in Nuclear Engineering and Materials Science, with previous research roles at various institutions including Purdue University and Idaho National Laboratory.
Current Role at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Sam Manuel has been serving as a Postdoctoral R&D Associate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory since 2019. In this role, he focuses on advanced research and development projects, particularly in the field of materials science. His work involves the characterization of microstructures and mechanical testing of irradiated materials. He also engages in machine-learning driven data visualization to enhance the understanding of post-irradiation examination of accident tolerant fuels and claddings.
Previous Experience in Research and Academia
Prior to his current position, Sam Manuel gained extensive experience in research and academia. He worked at Idaho National Laboratory as a Graduate Research Intern from 2017 to 2018. He also served as a Summer Research Assistant at the Center for Advanced Energy Studies in 2017. His tenure at Purdue University included roles as a Graduate Research Assistant, Teaching Assistant, and Research Assistant from 2014 to 2019, providing him with a solid foundation in both teaching and research methodologies.
Educational Background in Engineering
Sam Manuel holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Materials Science and Engineering from Purdue University, which he completed from 2016 to 2019. He also earned a Master of Science (MS) in Nuclear Engineering from Purdue University from 2014 to 2016. His undergraduate education includes a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California San Diego, completed from 2010 to 2014. This educational background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of engineering principles and materials science.
Research Focus and Specializations
Sam Manuel specializes in the microstructure characterization and small-scale mechanical testing of materials subjected to extreme conditions. His research includes in-situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. He develops deep learning tools for analyzing micrographs and videos, enabling detailed characterization of materials at various length and time scales. His focus on alloys, ceramics, and composites under irradiation contributes to advancements in materials science.