Nicholas Richter

PhD Candidate in Materials Engineering at Purdue University

West Lafayette, Indiana, United States

About

Currently a student at Purdue University working to expand my knowledge in the field of Materials Science and Engineering. I now have experience in the electronics industry through undergraduate research being done studying the nucleation of tin whiskers in pure tin films. In addition, I have worked with Nucor Steel - Decatur studying non-metallic inclusion development in their clean steels. Microstructural analysis and process optimization were skills gained through these experiences. I also have a basic understanding of the broad world of materials through my studies.

Experience

  • Graduate Research Assistant at Purdue University
    Aug 2018 - Present · 7 yrs 11 mos

  • Undergraduate Research Assistant at Purdue University
    Aug 2016 - Dec 2017 · 1 yr 5 mos

    Studied the nucleation of tin whiskers from pure tin films in electronic applications. Due to the quality issues presented by these defects, it is necessary to understand the mechanisms behind their formation. Worked to optimize electroplated films, as well as to utilize blister testing and thermal cycling to induce stresses in the film and study whisker growth

  • Metallurgical Intern at Nucor Corporation
    May 2017 - Aug 2017 · 4 mos

  • Undergraduate Research Assistant at ArcelorMittal
    Aug 2015 - May 2016 · 10 mos

    Utilized literature to generate a model of the chemical and physical interactions within a blast furnace. Created the program using both Fortran and Python coding languages, and created a GUI for a user interface. The model was used as a teaching tool, and provided a steady state understanding of the inputs and outputs of the system.

  • Intern at C&I Design
    May 2014 - Jan 2016 · 1 yr 9 mos

    Worked summers and winters between school semesters as a CAD technician for an architecture firm. Gained skills in AutoCAD as well as developed project management skills. Worked to edit red marks on drawings and organize project documents