On November 6th, 2020, I finished what has been the defining endeavor of my early career. I finally defended my graduate research and was awarded a Doctorate of Philosophy in Nuclear Engineering from Oregon State University. Words can not describe the feeling of having finally overcome such a challenge. To have finally achieved what I set out to do so many years ago. To finally reach that place I have been travelling to for my entire adult life. It is overwhelming, uplifting, and somewhat terrifying, all at the same time.
I have taken a moment to reflect, to have gratitude, and to soak up the feeling of having accomplished something great. Now that moment has passed and I find myself thinking more about what comes next. The answer is multi-faceted.
The first order of business is typical for a recent graduate; a change of employment. I am now seeking a new role in which I can utilize my newly acquired degree. Hopefully that role is with ASML, but I am open to other possibilities as well. The job search is likely to go on until March or April of 2021. I am both excited for a new challenge and somewhat sad to be leaving my current position. I have come to make many friends in my department and I hope to find the same social circles again, although I doubt that I can properly fill the void which will be left by my current colleagues. I will always remember the challenges and experiences of being an SIE, of traveling the world for ASML, and of working on the dynamic, complex technology platform that is the most advanced photo-lithography system in the world.
The second order of business is a continuation of my research project. I have started a company, Hertel R&D LLC to manage the commercialization of the sensor I’ve developed for my doctoral research. I will devote a portion of my time to getting this company off the ground and supporting the patent application process. Hopefully, I will be granted a patent in 2021 and a proper prototypical testing process can begin. I will post updates as I go, at first on this site but eventually updates will be posted on HertelResearch.com.
So life goes on, the next chapter opens, and we dive in knowing the best is yet to come!
