One Ph.D. student’s research is redefining radiation testing at the University of Utah’s TRIGA Reactor (UUTR)

Radiation hardness testing is used to evaluate how well materials—such as sensors, microchips, and other essential tech used in nuclear science—can withstand radiation without failing.

Testing a materials’ resilience to radiation helps us develop more advanced technologies to use in high-radiation environments, such as space missions, nuclear reactors, and defense systems. Unfortunately, simulating how radiation will affect materials requires very detailed, complex models of the reactor in which the testing will occur.

Joe Johnson, a Ph.D. student at the University of Utah, is changing that. His research is laying the groundwork for using smarter, faster simulation methods that still give accurate results.

The key lies in advanced modeling techniques and variance reduction methods. In a new study published in IEEE Transactions on Nuclear Science, Johnson presents a hybrid simulation method that significantly accelerates radiation hardness testing design—an important step toward enabling efficient and accurate neutron displacement damage (NDD) testing using the University of Utah TRIGA Reactor (UUTR). This development will allow researchers to run test designs much more quickly and efficiently, helping them get reliable answers without needing weeks of computer time.

With up to 100x faster modeling methods, Johnson’s work could position UUTR as a key site for collaborations and commercial interest in radiation testing at the University of Utah, further positioning the Utah Nuclear Engineering Program (UNEP) as a key contributor to the future of nuclear engineering.

Left: Stimulated Neutrons, low and high energy. Right: Speed Up Function, low and high energy. “A” and “B” indicate “Low” and “High” neutron energies from the UUTR. Left: Stimulated Neutrons, low and high energy. Right: Speed Up Function, low and high energy.

National scholarship awarded for sustainable pavement research

As a Ph.D. student at the University of Utah, Jeremiah Adejube’s hard work and dedication as both a researcher and a teaching assistant isn’t just a path toward a terminal degree—it’s a reflection of a deeply personal and purposeful journey.

Originally from Nigeria, Jeremiah brings a global perspective to his research in sustainable infrastructure and materials engineering.

“Growing up in a developing country exposed me to the urgent need for improved civil infrastructure,” he said. “That experience, combined with my professional background in road construction and my passion for sustainability, is what inspired me to pursue a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering.”

Jeremiah’s work centers on sustainable pavement and materials engineering, with a focus on reducing the environmental impact of roadways. He studies how to improve the performance of pavements—especially in cold regions—by integrating eco-friendly materials and better prediction models.

“My research focuses on minimizing the carbon footprint of construction materials,” Jeremiah explained. “I aim to influence policy, reduce maintenance costs, and create sustainable solutions that work for both developed and developing regions.”

Currently, Jeremiah is contributing to a UDOT-sponsored project that evaluates polymer-modified Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA). He is also working to refine the Cracking Tolerance Index (CT-index) of asphalt pavements using nonlinear finite element modeling. His advisor, Dr. Pedro Romero, has played a key role in guiding Jeremiah’s research and connecting him with industry partners such as the Utah Asphalt Pavement Association.

His research is garnering national recognition: Jeremiah was recently named a recipient of a prestigious scholarship awarded by the Asphalt Institute Foundation. He is one of only seven students selected nationwide for this honor, which recognizes promising scholars focused on asphalt materials and pavement infrastructure. The scholarship, now in its fifth year, awarded a total of $28,000 for the 2025–26 academic year and was featured in Asphalt Magazine.

Jeremiah Adejube teaches high school students about concrete.

Beyond the lab, Jeremiah is deeply committed to mentorship, community engagement, and leadership. He has taught undergraduate courses, helped run a Transportation Summer Camp for high school students, and serves in multiple outreach and service roles in his church and local community.

“I draw strength and inspiration from the memory of my late father, the sacrifices of my mother, and a deep desire to give back,” he said. “By mentoring students and staying engaged in academic and spiritual communities, I want to help shape a future where infrastructure is both sustainable and accessible.”

After completing his Ph.D., Jeremiah hopes to work in asphalt production or pavement construction, eventually transitioning into a teaching role to support and inspire future engineers—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. His long-term vision is to start a civil engineering consultancy focused on low-carbon and climate-resilient materials.

With his scholarship award and continued research, Jeremiah is well on his way to doing just that.

From AI to infrastructure, Liu’s work continues to elevate the future of transportation and city planning.

Congratulations to Dr.Cathy Liu on her recent appointment as Associate Editor for Computers, Environment and Urban Systems. This leading international journal highlights the application of computer-based tools—including GIS, spatial analytics, simulation, and AI—to solve critical challenges in urban planning and transportation systems.

Recently promoted to full Professor of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Dr. Liu’s expertise in sustainable transportation, public transit systems, infrastructure modeling, and urban informatics makes her a valuable contributor to the journal’s editorial leadership. Her research integrates programming, computational analysis, and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to advance modern solutions for cities and communities.

Transportation Engineering at the University of Utah

Explore Transportation Engineering→