Griffin Bradford

Why FSU?

I completed my undergraduate degrees in Physics and Mathematics at FSU. Upon completing my undergraduate degrees, I sought employment at the Applied Superconductivity Center as a technician performing routine characterization of superconducting samples. I became enamored with the potential of high temperature superconductors and decided to join the Materials Science and Engineering Program as it is one of the leaders in the field.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

Throughout my life, I have always known that science and mathematics were my core academic interests. Upon completing my undergraduate degrees in Physics and Mathematics, I came to realize that my career options were limited and that I still yearned for more education. Discovering superconductivity research was certainly the catalyst that drove me to pursue a graduate degree and move the field forward.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

My work is centered on the usage of REBCO Coated Conductors in high magnetic fields, specifically, in solenoids. REBCO is the leading candidate of the HTS materials for power transmission, superconducting electric machines, particle accelerators, and most importantly, nuclear fusion. My research directly approaches the challenges in implementation and usage of REBCO in these extreme applications.

Career aspirations

I aspire to be at the cutting edge of nuclear fusion development via plasma confinement using superconductors. Many challenges are posed by its usage, but it is a task that must be completed if we ever wish to achieve clean energy generation. Overall, I want to pursue the materials science research that is required for nuclear fusion development.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Determine your area of interest, seek out research groups at your university of interest in that area, and reach out to them. Transition from your undergraduate degree to graduate school directly, as it is difficult to stay in the school mindset. Find what interests you most in your area of focus and pursue it vigorously, while also communicating with your peers to get an outside perspective.