Nandagopal Pradeep Kumar | Student Spotlight
Nandagopal Pradeep Kumar
MS Candidate
Materials Science and Engineering
"I was overjoyed when I got accepted into Stanford University—partly because it was THE Stanford University, and partly because of its close-knit community and collaborative research environment."
While I am still exploring where my true interests lie, I’ve always been drawn to supporting others who pursue their dreams with clarity and passion—even as I continue searching for my own.
My first year at Stanford was a whirlwind—chaotic, energising, and full of positive interactions. Coming in with a background in ceramic synthesis research during my undergraduate degree, I was eager to branch out and explore new technologies and processes. I worried that my indecisiveness to choose a niche might hold me back, but Stanford’s flexibility and openness gave me the chance to dive into a wide range of scientific experiences.
Over my first year, I took several materials science courses, enrolled in a public speaking class to challenge my social awkwardness, and worked with three different research groups. These rotations helped me gain hands-on experience with characterisation techniques, laser operation (Dresselhaus-Marais group), and tomographic data reconstruction (Ophus group), while also helping me clarify my interests. My final rotation with the Majumdar Group in mechanical engineering introduced me to process engineering and the sustainable production of biochar—an area that deeply resonated with my long standing interest in sustainability.
That experience opened the door to an incredible opportunity - working over the summer with Zero Inc., a startup focused on sustainable and economical biochar production for carbon sequestration.
Outside the lab, I finally stepped out of my comfort zone and got involved with the Stanford chapter of the Materials Research Society (MRS). As a first-year representative, I contributed to organising community and professional development events in the Materials Engineering Department, and I’m excited to continue next year as the co-Professional Development Chair. I hope to build on the foundation laid by those before me and contribute meaningfully to this vibrant community we’ve fostered.
Looking back, I think my past self would be proud of how far I’ve come, from overcoming shyness to finding direction. I’m deeply grateful for all the opportunities Stanford has provided, and I look forward to an even more exciting and fulfilling academic year ahead.
