Alumnus Derek Van Damme Opens Spring 2016 Physics Careers Seminar Series

The Spring 2016 Physics Careers seminar series opens on Monday, Feb. 8, 2016 with alumnus Derek Van Damme (MS '15):

Time: 11 a.m. on Monday, February 8, 2016 (refreshments served at 10:30 a.m.)

Location: 204 Loomis Laboratory (Interaction Room)

Title:  The Grad School Dropout: From Physics to Rocket Science and Systems Engineering in 6 Months

Speaker: Derek Van Damme, Raytheon

Abstract:   The aerospace and defense industry provides plenty of exciting opportunities for graduates of STEM fields at all levels to solve complex and challenging problems while working on technological marvels ranging from the sensors on NOAA satellites to radar systems aboard the F-16 fighter jet. I will provide detail on my experience as a systems engineer at Raytheon, specifically the missile systems division, and how I have applied my background in physics to excel during the early stages of my career. I will also describe my career search process as I decided to leave the physics Ph.D. program after obtaining a Master’s degree, in addition to providing useful tips for physicists looking to obtain a position at a leading defense company.

Bio: Derek is a Systems Engineer II at Raytheon Missile Systems division in Tucson, Arizona. Beginning in August 2015, he has provided systems requirements analysis for multiple projects and has worked on a small team developing a new simulation. In 2013, he received a BS in physics from Michigan Technological University where he conducted research on experimental nanotechnology. In May 2015, he received a Master’s degree in Physics where he worked with Dr. Aleksei Aksimentiev in his computational biophysics group.

Note: While he's in Urbana, Derek may be available to discuss job opportunities at Raytheon or other related industries. If you would like to meet with him on Monday, Feb. 8, please send me an e-mail, slcooper@illinois.edu, and I'll try to arrange a meeting.

You can see the rest of the Spring 2016 Physics Careers Seminar series here: http://physics.illinois.edu/events/seminars.asp?cal=4014&sem=spring