Janelle Wharry

Janelle Wharry is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering at the University of Illinois, with a courtesy appointment in the Materials Research Laboratory since 2024. She previously held roles at Purdue University, including Associate Professor and Assistant Professor positions in Materials and Nuclear Engineering. Her research focuses on advanced materials for nuclear energy systems, corrosion mechanisms, and irradiation effects in structural materials.

Education: Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Michigan (2004–2012). Professional roles include editorial positions for Materials Today Communications and Materials Science & Engineering: A.

Research interests span materials manufacturing, nuclear fuels, mechanical behavior under irradiation, and corrosion. Notable contributions include studies on FeCrAl alloys, stress corrosion cracking in austenitic steels, and pseudoelasticity in stainless steels. Awards include the NSF CAREER Award (2018), DOE Early Career Award (2019), and the TMS Brimacombe Medal (2025).

Her Wharry Research Group emphasizes problem-solving and leadership development, with a focus on inclusivity and collaboration. Current projects address materials for decarbonization, nuclear fuel/clad interactions, and radiation-resistant alloys. She contributes to DOE initiatives through roles in the Nuclear Science User Facilities (NSUF) and roundtable panels.