Garik Patterson

Background

About Garik Patterson

I completed my PhD with a focus on radiation imaging and experimental thermalhydraulics. My primary research focus is the design, development, and deployment of portable radiation imaging systems for the purpose of void fraction distribution measurement inside nuclear fuel assemblies, as well as other complex geometries. My current research interests include the application of machine learning to image reconstruction, particularly to improve void fraction prediction. Throughout my degree, I have also had the pleasure of working with and gaining hands-on experience with many advanced systems. One such system is the McMaster Tandem Accelerator where I was able to gain firsthand experience in the accelerator operating principles by assisting in the repairs of the plasma chamber. Another system was the McMaster Critical Heat Flux Test Facility, where I was the primary operator and technician. This experience provided me with valuable skills in experimental thermalhydraulics such as thermalhydraulic design, testing, and data analysis. Aside from experimental studies, I am also passionate about public outreach. During my graduate studies, I was a founding member, and vice-president, of the North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN) McMaster chapter, and served as a graduate liaison. I am also proud to have been a part of the non-profit science literacy platform Science for Everyone, where I lend my expertise in nuclear science and technology to provide public outreach. I have done this through various media, such as social media platforms (Instagram), and podcast episodes (“On the Scidelines”).