People of NRL: Travis Anderson

Say hello to U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Head of the High Power Electronics Branch, Travis Anderson!

Title: U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Head of the High Power Electronics Branch (Code 6880), Electronics Science and Technology Division (Code 6800)

Education: Ph.D., University of Florida (2008)

B.S. Georgia Institute of Technology (2004)

What was your career path prior to your current position: I came to NRL via the American Society for Engineering Education Postdoctoral Fellowship program immediately after completing my Ph.D. I was then hired as a Karles Fellow. Prior to NRL, I was actively involved in research both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and interned at Sandia National Labs.

What inspired you to pursue your particular field: I have always been passionate about the math and science fields, which naturally led me to a career in engineering. I became involved in R&D as an Undergraduate Research Assistant, which is where I was also exposed to semiconductor device fabrication, and have never looked back since then!

How does your work impact the Navy’s mission: The power distribution network is the heart of all Navy systems, from the smallest unmanned vehicle all the way up to an aircraft carrier. By developing next-generation high efficiency solid-state power device and component technology we are revolutionizing power handling capability for size-constrained platforms, which enables the insertion of all other technologies in the Navy R&D portfolio, including advanced radar, weapons systems, sensors, and propulsion.

What’s the most promising new development you’re working on in your field: It is exciting to finally see the insertion of commercial silicon carbide technology in Naval systems. This is a true success story of 30 years of DoD R&D. It is also exciting to participate in the development of GaN and Ga2O3 for power electronics, which are just at the beginning of the technology development cycle. Each material system has unique advantages and challenges.

How I came to be a U.S. Naval Research Laboratory employee: My family has a rich history with the Navy. As I worked toward my Ph.D., pursuing a career in a DoD lab seemed to be an obvious choice. The American Society for Engineering Education/NRC Postdoctoral Fellowship and Karles Fellowships programs make NRL an extremely competitive place for emerging Ph.Ds.

What I like best about working at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory: The collaborative and scientifically curious culture has always made NRL a special place. The depth of knowledge that can be found roaming the halls, and willingness to team up to solve hard problems, is unparalleled.

Pivotal Career Moments/Experiences: The recent promotion to a management role is of course a significant transition from 13 years as a lab scientist, but I am looking forward to the opportunity to continue serving the Navy in my new capacity.