Researcher

 

Dr. Zack Thompson is a research and development scientist at Idaho National Laboratory. His research centers on materials characterization and nondestructive evaluation through imaging and spectroscopy using wavelengths ranging from x-rays to microwaves. He serves as principal investigator or co-investigator in multiple research projects in collaboration with other national laboratories, federal entities, and universities. These projects include: Raman spectroscopy of carbon allotropes used in nuclear and energy storage applications; in-situ process monitoring and correction of additively and advanced manufactured materials using novel measurement techniques; support and analysis of field collected spectroscopic data; x-ray and optical system modeling; development of x-ray imaging techniques and image processing algorithms; design and construction of field deployable x-ray imaging systems. His research interests include using terahertz (THz) imaging and spectroscopy to characterize materials through photon-phonon and phonon-plasmon interactions, monitoring in-situ layer growth and electrical conductivity in challenging environments, nonlinear and ultrafast optics, plasmonic metamaterials, functionalizing solid-state phase-change materials, and ultrafast radiation detection. He earned his doctorate in physics from Oregon State University with a focus on nonlinear THz imaging and spectroscopy. He also holds bachelor’s degrees in physics and mathematics from Northern Arizona University.