Born: 1974 (San Francisco, California)
Biography:
Njema Frazier, born on March 13, 1974, in San Francisco, California, is a prominent figure in the field of nuclear physics. As a nuclear physicist at the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) in Washington, D.C., Frazier has made significant contributions to scientific advancements and the national effort to ensure nuclear safety.
Frazier’s passion for mathematics and science was apparent from a young age. However, it wasn’t until she attended a summer program that she discovered her true aptitude for these subjects. She was so enamored with the experience that she became a student mentor after aging out of the program. This early exposure and mentorship played a crucial role in shaping her future educational and professional endeavors.
Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, Frazier enrolled at Carnegie Mellon University and obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in physics in 1992. She then pursued postgraduate studies at Michigan State University (MSU), a renowned institution for nuclear physics. At MSU, Frazier earned both a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in theoretical nuclear physics. During her time at the university, she worked at the prestigious National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL), focusing on exploring the properties of shell-model wavefunctions at high excitation energies.
Following the completion of her Ph.D., Frazier embarked on a remarkable career that showcased her expertise and dedication to scientific advancements. She served as a professional staff member for the Committee on Science at the U.S. House of Representatives for four years. This experience provided her with valuable insight into the policy and decision-making processes surrounding scientific research.
In 2001, Frazier began her work at the NNSA as a nuclear physicist. Over the years, she held various positions within the organization, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to the field. Notably, she served as the acting director of the International Program Management Division, Acting Deputy Director of the Advanced Simulation and Computing (ASC) Division, and acting director of the Office of Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF). In these roles, Frazier contributed to improving scientific knowledge in high energy density physics (HEDP) regarding weapons and played a vital role in ensuring the continued safe maintenance of nuclear weapon stockpiles.
Beyond her professional achievements, Frazier has actively engaged in organizations that promote diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields. She is a member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), where she has held leadership positions, including National Alumni Chair in 2008 and National Leadership Institute Chairperson from 2010 to 2012. Additionally, Frazier co-founded the POWER (Professional Opportunities for Women at Energy Realized) Employee Resource Group at the Department of Energy (DOE). Through POWER, Frazier aims to support and empower women in the energy sector professionally and personally while inspiring the next generation of women to pursue STEM careers.
As a senior scientist in the Defense Science Division, Frazier plays a pivotal role in organizing and overseeing weapons-related science activities at esteemed institutions such as Los Alamos, Lawrence Livermore, and Sandia National Laboratories. Her work has enabled the maintenance and improvement of weapons-related science without the need for explosive nuclear testing.
Frazier’s contributions to the field of nuclear physics, her advocacy for diversity and inclusion, and her commitment to national security make her an exceptional figure in women’s history and the scientific community.