Angelique Gordon
Materials Science & Engineering
Advised by Joshua Zide
Interview submitted in Spring 2024.
CHARM Interviewer (CI): Where did you grow up and go to school for your undergraduate degree?
Angel Gordon (AG): I grew up in Stowe, PA and just graduated from UD with my degree in Materials Science & Engineering.
CI: What got you interested in materials science?
AG: The pursuit of understanding the fundamental structure and properties of materials from the atomic to macro scale is what really draws my interest to materials science. Understanding these behaviors and mechanisms allows for the design and optimization of new materials for innovative applications.
CI: In technical language, what is the research you do here at CHARM?
AG: I utilize Molecular Beam Epitaxy to grow high purity III-V semiconductor thin films for implementation in devices such as photoconductive switches. Growing a material capable of achieving these optoelectronic properties requires bandgap engineering, the incorporation of nanoparticles, and various other complex growth techniques.
CI: What is a skill you would like to build on while being a part of CHARM?
AG: Communication and Outreach. Clear communication an important factor in team based environments, such as the Materials Growth Facility; as well as building my ability to easily communicate my work to a broad audience with different levels of experience. I would also like to assist in fostering an interest in science and engineering in the local community as CHARM does during outreach opportunities.
CI: Tell us about your career goals and aspirations.
AG: I aim to pursue a potential career in quantum materials research either at a national lab or through industry.
CI: Are there any other student/campus organizations you belong to?
AG: I am a First-Year Representative for the UD’s Materials Research Society Chapter where to contribute to organizing and facilitating opportunities to enhance the networking skills and professional development of the Materials Science and Engineering Department.
CI: What do you enjoy doing on your downtime outside of the lab?
AG: I enjoy baking various pastries, reading, gardening, and equestrian dressage [note: see picture above!].
CI: What advice would you give to undergraduate students and first-year graduate students?
AG: For Undergraduate Students: Don’t be afraid of changing schedules, majors, or even post graduation paths. These may be daunting decisions to make, but your professors and advisors are here to help you guide and support you though them.
For First-Year Graduate Students: It is worth your time to talk to as many professors and their Graduate students as you can to gain new perspectives and insights into all of the research that is happening in your field.