Meet Our Team of Experts

Our team consists of nationally recognized experts in nuclear engineering, materials science, and environmental safety. With years of combined experience in advanced reactor technology and a commitment to sustainable energy, they’re uniquely qualified to lead this initiative.

Deployment Team

This group leads the safe and efficient deployment of our microreactor, ensuring all legal, regulatory, and operational requirements are met. Under their guidance, faculty and industry professionals collaborate to navigate the complexities of licensing and guarantee that every aspect of the project aligns with rigorous safety standards.

Elia Merzari Headshot

Elia Merzari

Professor of Nuclear Engineering, and Director of Strategic Initiatives

Matthew Zerphy

Matthew Zerphy

Assistant Dean for Operations, Professor of Practice (Nuclear Engineering)

Doug Wolfe

Douglas Wolfe

Associate Vice President for Research, Director of Strategic Initiatives

Penn State Research Team

Penn State is committed to conducting research that advances micro nuclear technology and trains the next generation of skilled professionals. These teams focus on economic and social sustainability, working to ensure that our findings benefit local communities and ultimately achieve a global impact with the microreactor deployment on our research campus.

Elia Merzari Headshot

Elia Merzari

Professor of Nuclear Engineering, and Director of Strategic Initiatives

Matthew Zerphy

Matthew Zerphy

Assistant Dean for Operations, Professor of Practice (Nuclear Engineering)

Kellog Gretta

Gretta Kellogg

Asst. Director of Strategic Initiatives, Institute for Computational & Data Sciences
Asst. Director, Center for Applications of AI & ML to Industry

Penn State Student Researchers

These emerging scholars and innovators play a vital role in advancing micro nuclear technology, contributing fresh insights to ongoing research while gaining hands-on experience that will shape the future of clean, safe, and sustainable energy solutions.

Let’s Connect

We encourage questions from all interested parties, whether about partnerships, specific research initiatives, or general inquiries. Engaging with our community is essential to the success of this project.

contact us