In class and labs, they’re learning about engineering physics and radiation science. Outside the classroom, they’re guiding visitors through Canada’s most powerful nuclear research reactor.
Many of the tour guides at the McMaster Nuclear Reactor (MNR) are students in the faculties of Science and Engineering, balancing their studies with one of the most unique part-time jobs on campus.
Built in 1959, MNR is a hub for nuclear research and training, not to mention the world’s leading supplier of iodine-125 – a medical isotope used to treat cancer.
Thousands of visitors from around the world tour MNR every year, from middle- and high-school students to aspiring scientists, industry professionals and government officials.
When she’s not in the classroom, third-year engineering physics student Willow Paraskevas explains neutron beams and medical isotope production to groups touring the reactor.
“I took a picture with the McMaster Nuclear Reactor on the first day I toured the campus. I knew I wanted to work there some day,” she says.
Guides tailor the tour to their audience, helping visitors unpack the history and science behind MNR and the many ways it’s used to advance research in health and medicine, clean energy, environmental science and more.
The highlight of the tour, says guide Camille Gillespie, is showcasing the bright blue glow of the reactor core. She has led more than a dozen tours and still enjoys explaining how Cherenkov radiation is responsible for the breathtaking glow.
The McMaster Nuclear Reactor (MNR) generates neutrons to support research in materials science, clean energy and health and medicine. It has an “open pool” design that gives researchers easy access to the reactor core. (Photo by Kayla Da Silva/McMaster University).
“I save the glow for the end of the tour. Some visitors assume it’s an artificial light that we put there to indicate where the core is. It’s a lot of fun to see their faces light up when we explain what they’re actually seeing,” says Gillespie, a third-year engineering physics student.
Gillespie also enjoys talking about neutron imaging at MNR.
“I did a 16-month research term in that field, so I’m able to go into more detail about the science and answer more questions,” she says.
Guides are thoroughly trained on all things MNR, including some impressive (and fun) reactor facts.
They have many favourites:
- 700,000+ jet engine parts are inspected annually using neutron radiography at MNR.
- Researchers have used the reactor to study a Van Gogh painting, discovering an earlier, unfinished work underneath the original.
- The reactor supplies 60 per cent of the world’s iodine-125, enough to treat approximately 70,000 patients every year.
Kevina Chavda complements her PhD research on diagnostic imaging by helping visitors understand the impact of medical isotopes in health care.
What’s her advice for students considering a career in STEM?
“Look for mentorship from people that are doing the cool things you want to do. Most people are happy to share their career pathway and give guidance to those interested. Also, hands-on learning opportunities like internships and research lab positions can help you gain useful skills and experience,” she says.
Photo by Georgia Kirkos
It’s their passion for nuclear science that makes MNR’s tour guides exceptional at their jobs, says Raluca Petria, McMaster’s Manager, Nuclear Outreach and Education.
“Our tour guides truly bring Canada’s Nuclear University to life for our visitors. It’s inspiring to see so many young women in STEM using their knowledge and enthusiasm for nuclear science to introduce new audiences to the field,” she says.
Read more about students’ perspectives.
What advice would you share with young women who are pursuing careers in science or engineering?
Follow your interests and stay true to your values. It will be a lot of hard work, but the journey and the end result will be so rewarding. Keep your goals in mind and embrace all opportunities that present themselves to you. You never know what can happen!
~Willow Paraskevas, Engineering physics
You don’t need to be a genius or have perfect grades to succeed in STEM. What really matters is curiosity, passion, and the courage to mess up and try again. If you’re struggling with a concept, that doesn’t mean you don’t belong, it just means you’re learning and that’s exactly what you’re supposed to be doing!
~Alicia Agostini, Engineering physics and iBioMed
Don’t be intimidated by the glass ceiling. If you know being in STEM is something you are meant to do, go for it; you are no less competitive for not looking like the status quo. Don’t be afraid of doing hard things if you know it’s for something you really love.
~Celina Fu, Materials science & engineering
Apply, apply, apply! I have often felt out of place in a lot of science and engineering spaces, and I was lucky enough to have mentors and other figures that encouraged me to go after opportunities anyway. This really helped me see that there are a lot of people in my corner. Going after what you want is always the right choice.
~Camille Gillespie, Engineering physics
This may sound cliche, but my biggest piece of advice is to always follow what you’re genuinely passionate about. A STEM career is rigorous and requires hard work, resilience, and constant curiosity. You need to stay motivated, ask questions and push beyond what you currently know. Having passion for your work makes what you do everyday fun. Ask questions, seek mentors and surround yourself with people who support your growth. A STEM career is awesome, don’t forget to enjoy every minute of it!
~Chloe Green, Medical physics
A career in STEM can be very challenging, so it is important to remember to take care of yourself along the way. Your strength isn’t defined by your ability to handle everything on your own – don’t be afraid to accept help or support.
~Jayna VanderWal, Health physics specialist
When you think of “women in STEM” or “women in nuclear,” what comes to mind?
I think of strong, supportive, intelligent, and hard-working individuals who are shaping the future of science and technology. I think of previous coworkers, mentors, and fellow students who aspire to build meaningful careers in the nuclear field. As a woman in STEM myself, I am passionate about nuclear power, continued education, materials research and radioisotopes. Women in nuclear play an important role in the field and continue to inspire and support others entering the industry.
~Kaylee Rich, Chemistry
When I think of women in STEM or nuclear, I think of strength, intelligence, and quiet determination. I think of women leading research, advancing medical technologies, and contributing to clean and safe energy solutions. I see innovators and problem-solvers who are not only breaking barriers but also opening doors for the next generation. It represents progress, empowerment, and a future where talent, not gender, defines success.
~Shruti Jeshani, Physics
What is one way in which other women have made an impact on your journey in STEM education and work?
One of my biggest role models throughout my entire academic career has been my Teta (grandmother in Lebanese Arabic). In her 20s as a newcomer to Canada, she was accepted into an electrical engineering program. Unfortunately, due to familial commitments she was unable to pursue the degree, but she remained passionate about STEM and made sure her daughters were able to pursue post-secondary education. Her ambition and resilience throughout her life constantly motivates me to work hard and strive to accomplish what she was unable to in honour of her legacy.
~Julia Barnes, Mechanical engineering
My biggest role model, inspirational figure, and cheerleader is my mom. Throughout my life, she has always encouraged me to learn from my mistakes rather than fear them, and she has shown me what true perseverance looks like. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering support continue to shape the person I strive to become. I would be proud to one day be considered even half as inspiring to others as she is to me.
~Surena Crescitelli, Physics
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