What fueled your interest in particle accelerators and their applications?

I have been passionate about neutron generators, which are compact particle accelerators, since my master’s thesis project. The fact that we can produce nuclear fusion reactions in the lab and use the resulting neutrons fascinates me. Moreover, I have found exciting applications for these devices: firstly, to detect carbon in soil to quantify carbon sequestration and then to measure the composition of planetary surfaces, which is what I am most excited about.

What attracted you to join ATAP’s Fusion Science & Ion Beam Technology Program?

Mauricio Ayllon Unzueta loading a sample from a meteorite into an Elemental Mapping instrument. (Credit: Thor Swift/Berkeley Lab)

ATAP’s FSIBT program is at the forefront of Associated Particle Imaging Technology, which we use to develop the next generation of in-situ planetary nuclear spectrometers. Additionally, I knew and previously worked very well with the people in the FS&IBT group. The team provides a very healthy and productive work environment.

How have you found working at the Lab, and what research are you working on?

I am developing the next generation of planetary nuclear spectrometers that will help answer scientific questions about the origin and evolution of our solar system and map lunar resources for an eventual permanent human base on the Moon. The working environment is very healthy, and I enjoy working with the people here. Additionally, the Bay Area offers many activities that help me with work-life balance.

 

 

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