Women in Research: Stacie Manuel

Describe your Research Contributions or Interests. 

I am an optical engineer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Since receiving my PhD from Arizona, I have contributed to many projects throughout LLNL. I have spent most of my career at the National Ignition Facility (NIF), the world’s most energetic laser and I am so excited about the recent historic accomplishment of achieving fusion ignition in a laboratory setting. As a member of NIF’s Optical Design and Engineering group, I had the opportunity to contribute to many optical target diagnostic systems, such as the Optical Thomson Scattering (OTS) diagnostic and the Velocity Interferometer System for Any Reflector (VISAR). 

Currently, I am working in the High Explosives Applications Facility (HEAF) to upgrade a high-speed imaging system called High Explosives Laser Imaging Optical System (HELIOS) to be multi-axis. HELIOS uses a femtosecond laser to create a supercontinuum source for illumination with high-speed, high-resolution framing cameras to enable multi-frame imaging of initiators and detonators in motion.

In addition, whenever possible I share my love of optics in outreach activities such as Expanding Your Horizons and most recently LLNL’s restarted Fun with Science Program, where 5th graders visit LLNL’s Discovery Center on field trips.

Who was your Most Significant Role Model in Science or in your Career?

My most significant role model has been Jim Burge, my PhD advisor.  Jim shared his passion for optics with his students and always made it a point to understand the big picture.  As leader, he provided opportunities for students to learn from different types of projects and promoted group members (including himself) to learn from each other.  For example, when he didn’t know the answer to a question, he often encouraged us to “Go find out and let me know.” It was a privilege to work with him and I am grateful for everything he taught me about optical engineering. 

What Piece of Advice Would you Like to Pass On?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions because nobody knows everything, and people are usually willing to share their knowledge.  Although it might be possible to go figure out something on your own, it is better use of precious time to spend your time discovering something that no one knows.