The Nuclear Energy Research Center (NERC) at the University of Wyoming is proud to announce the selection of faculty members Xiang Zhang and Wes Eaton as recipients of funding under the prestigious Faculty Scholars Program. This program, made possible through a grant from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and funds from the Wyoming Legislature, aims to foster new areas of nuclear-focused research and support the professional growth of junior faculty.
Zhang and Eaton were chosen through a rigorous proposal process, acknowledging their significant contributions to expanding nuclear-related research in their respective disciplines. Their work has the potential to not only benefit the state of Wyoming but also contribute to the development of a strong community of researchers and students dedicated to nuclear energy on campus.
NERC co-Director Caleb Hill expressed gratitude for the support from the NRC and the Wyoming Legislature, emphasizing the importance of these funds in furthering nuclear research efforts in Wyoming. Hill stated, “We are excited to put these funds to immediate use and support the excellent work being done by our faculty. This also allows us to explore new collaborations and propel our projects forward.”
Xiang Zhang, an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, leads the Computations for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Laboratory. His team focuses on developing advanced modeling and design approaches, combining multiscale and multiphysics techniques with data-driven modeling to deepen our understanding of the relationship between processing, microstructure, properties, and performance for heterogeneous materials and advanced manufacturing processes.
With this new funding, Zhang will spearhead “A Study of Combined Thermal and Irradiation Creep of Nickel-Based” materials. The research aims to explore the effects of combined thermal and irradiation creep on the structural integrity of nickel-based materials, particularly in high-temperature environments and nuclear applications.
FAQ:
1. What is the Faculty Scholars Program?
The Faculty Scholars Program is a funding initiative supported by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s University Nuclear Leadership Program and funds from the Wyoming Legislature. Its focus is on promoting nuclear-focused research and supporting the professional growth of junior faculty.
2. How were Xiang Zhang and Wes Eaton selected for funding?
Zhang and Eaton were selected through a competitive proposal process that recognized their significant contributions to expanding nuclear-related research in their respective disciplines.
3. What is the research focus of Xiang Zhang’s laboratory?
Xiang Zhang’s laboratory, the Computations for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Laboratory, focuses on developing advanced modeling and design approaches to deepen our understanding of the relationship between materials processing, microstructure, properties, and performance.
4. What is the objective of Zhang’s research project?
Zhang’s research project aims to investigate the combined effects of thermal and irradiation creep on the structural integrity of nickel-based materials, particularly in high-temperature environments and nuclear applications.
