Keith Oconnor

Background

About Keith Oconnor

As a Senior Chemist and Data Analytics Lead at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory, I bring a unique blend of expertise in reactor plant chemistry, fleet support, and advanced data analytics. Leveraging my proficiency in R, Python, SQL, Tableau, and JMP, I analyze complex datasets to drive insights and innovation in nuclear science. My role underscores the importance of data-driven decision-making in critical scientific fields.In addition to my technical acumen, I am deeply committed to diversity and inclusion, demonstrated through my leadership as the co-chair of an LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group and my board membership at Albany Empire Soccer, a nonprofit advocating for inclusivity in sports.As a first-generation college student, I completed my B.A. in Geology and a B.S. in Environmental Chemistry from Hartwick College (2015), where I delved into water-sediment interactions in an extracurricular research project, supported by the Environmental Science and Policy Fellowship. This early research experience was where I first honed my skills in data analysis and environmental research.I obtained my Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences in 2020. There, my research focused on linking microbial and plant changes to biome shifts in Northern Alaska. By integrating modern plants and soils data with microbial and plant biomarkers, and utilizing tools like remote sensing, GIS, and advanced statistical analysis in R and Python, I developed innovative paleoclimate proxies for temperature and pH assessments.My postdoctoral fellowship at the Cincinnati EPA, under the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), involved complex projects like modeling heavy metal transport at watershed scales, investigating biochar applications, and studying the stable isotopes of microplastics. Here, my adept use of data languages for database management and querying was integral to my research.Feel free to connect with me to explore how data analytics and environmental science can intersect to create impactful solutions. Contact me at oconnork825@gmail.com.