My name is Matt Athon, and I am a PhD student in Materials Science and Engineering and I am advised by Dr. John McCloy. I earned my master’s degree at Texas A&M University studying environmental radiochemistry. Currently, I work at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and will maintain my residence there for the duration of my studies. My research will focus on actinide metals for advanced nuclear fuels. In my spare time, I enjoy fishing and spending time with my family.