January 13, 2025
By Mikey Fuller

Yifeng Che joined the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering as an assistant professor in January. Learn about her research in nuclear energy systems, why she chose a career at Georgia Tech, who her biggest influences are, and more in this Q&A.
 

Welcome to the Woodruff School! How did you make the decision to come to Georgia Tech?

I decided to come to Georgia Tech because of its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and its advanced computational resources, which perfectly align with my work in nuclear engineering. The collaborative environment here offers invaluable opportunities to engage with experts across diverse fields essential for the interdisciplinary research I pursue. Additionally, Georgia Tech’s commitment to addressing global energy challenges resonates with my passion for advancing nuclear energy systems. The opportunity to contribute to both teaching and research in such a dynamic and innovative environment made Georgia Tech an ideal place for me.
 

What courses will you be teaching?

In my first semester at Georgia Tech, I will be teaching NRE 6301: Reactor Engineering. In the future, I look forward to teaching courses related to nuclear engineering more broadly as well as courses focused on nuclear fuels and the application of data-driven techniques in nuclear engineering problems.
 

What do you enjoy about working in academia?

I am passionate about the intellectual freedom that academia offers, allowing me to explore new ideas and engage with cutting-edge research in my field. The opportunity to teach and mentor students is also incredibly rewarding. I find great joy in helping students develop critical thinking skills, working with student researchers to achieve meaningful outcomes, and witnessing their growth into independent thinkers. Additionally, I thrive in the collaborative environment of academia, where working with colleagues from diverse disciplines sparks innovative problem-solving and stimulates my own intellectual development. Ultimately, the combination of research, teaching, and collaboration makes academia an inspiring space, where I am eager to contribute and make a lasting impact.
 

What is the focus of your research?

My research is dedicated to advancing nuclear energy systems that strengthen energy security and contribute to the achievement of net-zero emissions goals. I focus on promoting the development of next-generation nuclear reactors, with a particular emphasis on multiphysics modeling and simulation of nuclear fuels and reactors. Additionally, I explore innovative, physics-informed, data-driven approaches that aim to accelerate nuclear fuel research, design, and demonstration. By integrating cutting-edge computational methods, my work seeks to optimize the performance, safety, and efficiency of nuclear systems, driving the transition toward a sustainable and resilient energy future.
 

Who are some of your career influences?

I have been fortunate to be influenced by many individuals who have shaped my path in profound and meaningful ways. I am incredibly grateful to my advisor, Professor Koroush Shirvan, for his continuous guidance, support, and invaluable perspectives throughout my graduate study and early career, continuing to this day. Professor Benoit Forget has also been a tremendous source of support, contributing significantly to both my graduate research and career development.

My time at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) was equally pivotal, offering me a unique and dynamic opportunity to work on high-impact, innovative projects with top experts in my field. I am especially thankful to the brilliant researchers who mentored me during my time there, including the late Giovanni Pastore, Jason Hales, Stephen Novascone, Som Dhulipala, Steve Heyes, and many others. The collaborative and supportive spirit of my INL colleagues has been truly inspiring. Their willingness to support one another and foster a sense of community in research and academia has reinforced my commitment to cultivating an inclusive and encouraging environment for both students and faculty in my own professional journey.
 

What achievements are you most proud of in your career?

Watching the students I have mentored learn and grow has always been a huge source of pride! In terms of research, more than any single paper or prize, I am proud that I have been able to contribute to a wide variety of interdisciplinary research areas – from computational and data-driven methods for aerodynamics and vortex-dominated flows to more recent work in personalized coronary artery flow modeling and uncertainty quantification. I’m motivated by the challenge of applying my skills to different areas and I hope to continue making connections and exploring new fields.
 

What developments or breakthroughs would you like to see in nuclear engineering over the next decade?

With the growing need for sustainable energy solutions and the U.S goal of tripling nuclear energy capacity by 2050, I anticipate significant breakthroughs in nuclear engineering in the coming decade. Advancements in innovative reactor designs -- offering greater efficiency, enhanced safety, and improved economics – are expected to progress toward higher technical readiness, paving the way for demonstration and deployment. A critical factor in these advancements is the selection and design of nuclear fuel, as fuel performance directly influences reactor safety and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, tightly integrating fuel performance modeling with other physics, leveraging the advanced computational power, will enable risk- and economics-driven reactor design and optimization. The adoption of artificial intelligence and digital twins is also expected to accelerate research and innovation in advanced fuel concepts and reactor systems, further driving progress in the field.
 

What is the biggest challenge of being a new professor on campus?

The biggest challenge of being a new professor is balancing competing responsibilities such as teaching, research, and mentoring while also establishing myself in a new environment. Fortunately, Georgia Tech offers a wealth of campus resources, and the Woodruff School faculty and staff have been exceptionally helpful and supportive.
 

What are you most excited about while working at Tech?

Working at Georgia Tech offers endless opportunities for excitement and growth. I’m thrilled to collaborate with talented colleagues and students who bring passion and innovation to an interdisciplinary environment. The opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research, supported by Georgia Tech’s state-of-the-art facilities and resources, is equally exciting. Most importantly, engaging with the next generation of engineers and innovators is truly inspiring, and I look forward to working with such a diverse and highly motivated group of students.
 

What do you enjoy doing for fun outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy being a foodie and bookworm. I’m constantly on the hunt for hidden gems on restaurant menus, which is one of the reasons I am drawn to the Atlanta area. When I’m not out exploring new menus, you’ll likely find me curled up with on the couch with a good novel.