Materials chemistry for next-generation nuclear systems.
At the University of California - Irvine, the Finkeldei Group probes the chemistry of nuclear materials to enable advances in
clean energy technologies.
Advanced Fuel Development
We synthesize and analyze advanced fuel candidates to gain fundamental insights into grain boundary characteristics, fission gas transport, and material properties.
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Fusion & Space Systems
Utilizing a unique internal gelation process, we synthesize microspheres for a variety of applications, including materials for fusion and space applications.
Atomistic Modeling
We are developing machine learning interatomic potentials to enable highly-accurate simulations of nuclear materials under conditions relevant to reactor operation.
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Waste Management
We analyze the redox chemistry of spent fuel and barrier materials to predict behavior in repositories. Additionally, we synthesize complex oxides to structurally immobilize long lived actinides.
Group News
June 12, 2026
Steven has headed to ORNL to begin his work as a DOE SCGSR Fellow. Andrew will be continuing as a Glenn T. Seaborg Institute intern at LLNL, and Audrey N. will be participating in the IMSEF research program at University of Idaho. Claudia will be part of the Nuclear Science Career Academy Internship Program at the University of Missouri Research Reactor, and Roshun will be researching with Audrey M. this summer at UCI.
Audrey N. and Max are recognized for their awesome work this year at the Department of Chemistry Undergraduate Awards Ceremony. Audrey wins the Michael E. Gebel Award, while Max won the American Institute of Chemists Award. Congratulations Audrey and Max!!!
June 1, 2026
Jessica successfully defends her PhD, Internal gelation to synthesize nuclear energy relevant materials: modifications to overcome pH limitations! We are so proud!!!!! Congrats Dr. Jessica!
May 22, 2026