Dr. Charlyne Smith is a nuclear engineer and quantum sensor researcher at the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) whose work focuses on advanced nuclear technologies and their role in global decarbonization. Originally from St. Catherine, Jamaica, she began her academic journey in solar energy before transitioning to nuclear for its resilience, high energy density, and ability to deliver steady, emissions-free power.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and mathematics, a master’s degree in Nuclear Engineering, and in 2021 became the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Florida. Dr. Smith has been recognized by the U.S. government for her technical research in nuclear fuel conversion and was honored with the Jamaican Prime Minister’s Youth Award for Academics in 2022.
Her work at EPRI advances the development of nuclear materials for extreme environments, including applications in nuclear reactors and fusion energy systems, and explores the use of quantum sensor technologies in energy systems. She also engages in international collaborations focused on climate resilience and low-carbon energy innovation.
Beyond her work at EPRI, She is the founder of an global education initiative that advances nuclear energy literacy in emerging countries.
