Organization: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab
Project: Understanding the Impact of HPC Center Energy Usage on Low-income and Minority Populations
Where did you grow up?
I was born and grew up in Portland, OR.
What’s your field of study and how did you get into that field?
I am a Computational Plasma Physicist by training, and I used HPC systems to simulate the turbulence inside of fusion reactors in order to improve reactor confinement. I was originally interested in civil engineering, but I got interested in plasma physics because I wanted to work in fusion energy as a solution to climate change.
What fascinates you about HPC?
When I was first introduced to HPC, I was really stunned at the depth of hardware and software that is coordinated to run calculations that would be impossible anywhere else. After many years, I love that I can still learn new things about the HPC system I work on every day. I find it fulfilling to be part of supporting a machine that enables scientists all over the world to do important research.
What’s your current title and what do you do?
My current title is Scientific Data Architect. I design and deploy software services on the HPC at NERSC to help scientists more easily work with their data.
What energy justice topic is most important to you and why?
I believe the consequences of climate change will unfairly impact people who are least in a position to do anything about it. I feel that the Department of Energy and the scientific community at large are in a position of authority and have a responsibility to do their best to address climate change.