Nuclear Chemistry:

When I tell people I worked as a nuclear chemist, the reactions are always the same—curious, a little nervous, and full of questions. Most people imagine glowing green liquids and danger signs, but the reality of my job was far more fascinating (and much less dramatic).

Nuclear chemistry is the study of how atomic nuclei behave—especially during radioactive decay, fission, or fusion. In practical terms, I worked with radioactive materials to analyze, and monitor radiochemical data from nuclear materials.

My day-to-day work ranged from handling and isolating radioisotopes, to using specialized instruments like gamma spectrometers to detect radiation levels with extreme precision. It was technical, yes—but also full of purpose.

Working in this field demands deep respect for radiation safety. Every step, every process, every glove mattered. We were trained thoroughly, and safety protocols were non-negotiable. But that didn’t make the work scary—it made it meaningful. There’s a certain pride in doing something that most people never get close to, all while knowing your work could power cities or save lives.

I was especially drawn to the intersection of chemistry and physics. Nuclear chemistry feels like the edge of the known world—a place where atoms break apart, release massive amounts of energy, and defy the everyday rules we’re used to.

Looking back, I’m grateful for the complexity, the challenges, and the incredible team I worked with. Nuclear chemistry isn’t just about dangerous materials—it’s about precision, purpose, and curiosity. It’s science with a long shadow, yes, but one filled with opportunity, discovery, and the power to change the world.