Geethu Sasikala

Reliable, adaptable, and research-driven Chemist and Research Scientist with a PhD in Physical & Analytical Chemistry from Western University and specialized expertise in corrosion science, nuclear materials, radioactive material handling, materials characterization, surface and interface analysis, and nuclear waste management research. Extensive doctoral research focused on mixed urania-thoria (UO2 to ThO2) nuclear fuel materials fabricated at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories and their characterization and dissolution behaviour under conditions relevant to permanent deep geological disposal. Strong background in experimental design, laboratory research, scientific data analysis, interpretation of complex findings, literature review, technical documentation, quality assurance, scientific writing, and dissemination of research findings.

Experienced in collaborating with multidisciplinary researchers and industry partners and communicating technical results through scientific publications and conference presentations. Well positioned for opportunities as an Analytical Chemist, Research Chemist, Corrosion Scientist, Materials Scientist, Nuclear Chemist, Environmental Chemist, Quality Control Chemist, Research Scientist, Research Associate, Postdoctoral Fellow, Laboratory Instructor, or other chemistry and physical-science research professional.

Doctoral Researcher – Physical & Analytical Chemistry at Western University (2021-09 – 2026-08)

Doctoral Research: From UO2 to ThO2: Characterization and Dissolution Behaviour Under Permanent Waste Disposal Conditions

• Conducted advanced doctoral research investigating the characterization and dissolution behaviour of mixed urania-thoria nuclear fuel materials under conditions relevant to permanent nuclear waste disposal.
• Investigated mixed UO2 to ThO2 fuel specimens across a range of thoria concentrations to support scientific understanding of material behaviour under deep geological repository conditions.
• Worked with nuclear fuel materials fabricated at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) as part of research relevant to Canada's nuclear waste management field.
• Designed, planned, and executed laboratory experiments to evaluate material characteristics and dissolution behaviour.
• Applied knowledge of physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, corrosion science, materials chemistry, and surface/interface analysis to research questions involving nuclear materials.
• Handled radioactive materials while following applicable laboratory procedures, safety requirements, research protocols, and documentation practices.
• Collected, organized, analyzed, and interpreted complex experimental data to identify trends and support scientifically defensible conclusions.
• Evaluated experimental findings against existing scientific literature and theoretical understanding to strengthen research interpretation.
• Conducted extensive literature reviews covering nuclear fuel materials, corrosion and dissolution processes, materials characterization, and nuclear waste disposal.
• Maintained detailed experimental records and research documentation using electronic laboratory notebook systems, supporting data traceability, quality assurance, and research integrity.
• Applied quality-assurance principles to laboratory documentation, experimental records, research data, and scientific reporting.
• Collaborated with academic researchers, colleagues, multidisciplinary teams, and industry partners on research relevant to nuclear materials and waste management.
• Prepared technical research content, scientific manuscripts, conference abstracts, posters, presentations, and other materials communicating experimental methodology and findings.
• Presented research findings to scientific audiences through oral and poster presentations at conferences.
• Contributed to research publications and manuscripts addressing nuclear materials characterization and other areas of chemistry and materials science.
• Demonstrated strong independent research capability while working effectively within collaborative scientific environments.

Teaching Assistant – Chemistry at Western University (2021-09 – 2022-07)

• Supported undergraduate students in first-year chemistry laboratory courses, reinforcing fundamental chemistry concepts and laboratory practices.
• Assisted students in understanding experimental procedures, laboratory activities, scientific concepts, and course expectations.
• Provided guidance during laboratory sessions while promoting safe, organized, and effective laboratory practices.
• Supported first-year chemistry Resource Rooms, assisting students with chemistry concepts, problem solving, and academic questions.
• Explained technical and scientific concepts in clear, accessible language appropriate for undergraduate learners.
• Helped students develop analytical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and confidence in applying chemistry principles.
• Worked collaboratively with faculty members, instructors, teaching staff, and other teaching assistants to support course delivery.
• Demonstrated strong communication, organization, professionalism, adaptability, and interpersonal skills in an academic environment.

Science Outreach Volunteer at Department of Chemistry – Western University (2024 – 2025)

• Participated in outreach activities introducing secondary-school students to chemistry and scientific research.
• Supported educational activities designed to encourage student interest and engagement in science.
• Assisted with communication of scientific concepts to younger audiences in an accessible and engaging manner.

Science Outreach Volunteer at Science Rendezvous – Western University (2024 – 2025)

• Participated in public science outreach activities through Western University's Department of Chemistry.
• Supported science communication and community engagement initiatives promoting interest in chemistry and STEM fields.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physical & Analytical Chemistry – Western University (2021-09 – 2026-08)

Integrated Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Chemistry – Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (2014 – 2019)