Sarah Szakas and Hunter Andrews of Oak Ridge National Laboratory were recently recognized as top young analytical scientists worldwide in the Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry. Their work in spectrometric techniques is shaping the future of atomic spectrometry across academic and industrial fields, according to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Szakas's research focuses on isotopic biomarkers and innovative analytical methods, with her paper, "Particle signal considerations for isotope ratio analysis with single particle multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry," noted for its contributions to the field. She also develops diagonal laser ablation techniques, providing a powerful tool for bioimaging applications, as reported by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Andrews's paper, "Rapid spatial analysis of surrogate TRISO fuel particles using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy image analysis," has received recognition alongside Szakas's work. Andrews earned his doctorate in mechanical and nuclear engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2020 and works on optical analytical methods for monitoring hazardous environments and detecting trace elements, including applications in nuclear fuels, environmental, and biological analyses. Szakas completed her Ph.D. in analytical chemistry at Iowa State University in 2024. Their research is supported by the Department of Energy's Office of Science at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, managed by UT-Battelle.
