Joseph Boro

February 4, 2026

What do you like about your job and/or about working at the Lab?

I love the diversity of people and projects I interact with every day. New and cutting-edge science and experts from every field surrounds us here, and I can't imagine a better environment to work and create.

What do your day-to-day work activities include?           

I manage a suite of electron microscopes (EPMA, FIB-SEM, SEM), collect data and advise users on their use, and develop cutting edge machine learning approaches for computer vision and high-throughput data collection through automation. There's plenty of fun work to keep me busy through it all.

What is one project you’re really proud to have worked on?   

Due to the nature of my position, I work on the order of 30–50 projects a year, so it's hard to pick just one... but I would say the contributions I get to make to fundamental nuclear forensics problems through machine learning and microscopy, as well as collaborations with international collaborators, make me really proud.

What is your educational/career background? 

I obtained a PhD in geology from Washington State University and worked as a postdoc at the University of Hawaii, Manoa studying volcano Kilauea and conducting cold-seal pressure vessel experiments. I owe a lot of my ability to collaborate in interdisciplinary science to geology, because we had to have a strong grasp on chemistry, physics, math, and computer science to conduct much of our research.

What inspired you to go into science/your field of work?           

As a child, I always migrated towards science and curiosity, and I think a career where I could create, innovate, and explore ideas was always in my future. I just never stopped being curious and sort of said yes to a lot of things and experiences. I let the “river” carry me to where I am, I didn't fight the current or follow any specific marker on the horizon.

What advice would you give to a new employee at the Lab?    

Take advantage of all the expertise around the Lab. Ask questions and don't be afraid to create and innovate.           

What are your hobbies/what do you do in your free time?         

We have a toddler at home, so she takes up most my free time these days. However, if I get free time I love to hike and explore the foot hills, rock climb, ski, and fish.

How many years have you worked at the Lab?   

2

Where are you from?

Nebraska, United States

Do you support disciplines or programs outside PLS?

Global Security, Strategic Deterrence