Leading Innovation in Nuclear Research & Education
Dr. Valerie Nwadeyi is a distinguished nuclear engineering researcher and educator
with deep expertise in radiation science, gamma-ray detection, waste management, and
health physics. She currently serves as Research Director and Nuclear Engineering
Faculty at South Carolina State University, where she leads the Center for Energy
and Environmental Solutions (CEES). In this role, she drives interdisciplinary research
initiatives in energy and environmental sustainability, develops innovative curricula,
and cultivates partnerships with national laboratories, industry, and government agencies
to expand research capacity and workforce development opportunities.
With DOE Q-Clearance and nearly a decade of applied experience, Dr. Nwadeyi has led
groundbreaking projects in non-destructive assay, advanced gamma-ray spectroscopy,
and imaging systems critical to national security and nuclear safety. Her work has
supported missions for the Department of Energy (DOE), National Nuclear Security Administration
(NNSA), Department of Defense (DOD), and Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL).
She has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and presented
nationally on topics ranging from plutonium disposition verification to radiation
monitoring technologies.
A summa cum laude graduate of South Carolina State University and Ph.D. alumna of
the University of Michigan, Dr. Nwadeyi is also an active mentor and advocate for
STEM education and diversity in engineering. She has designed summer internship programs,
delivered technical lectures to aspiring engineers, and served as a panelist and recruiter
for national laboratory programs. Her leadership extends beyond research to community
engagement, where she actively supports STEM pipeline development and contributes
to national organizations such as the American Nuclear Society, Women in Nuclear,
and the Institute of Nuclear Materials Management.
Dr. Nwadeyi’s career reflects a rare balance of technical innovation, academic excellence,
and service to the community, making her a leading voice in advancing nuclear safety,
health equity, and workforce diversity in the sciences.
Education
- Ph.D. Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences, University of Michigan, 2021
- M.S. Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences, University of Michigan, 2018
- B.S. Nuclear Engineering, South Carolina State University, 2016