Design of a Thermal Conductivity Measurement Device for Cryogenic Applications; Chernobyl and Virtue Ethics: Examining the Moral Responsibility of Key Actors

My technical work and STS research are connected through the shared theme of ethical responsibility in engineering decision making within complex technological environments. My STS research investigates the ethical failures surrounding the Chernobyl disaster, where poor leadership and decision-making in a high-risk environment led to a catastrophy. In contrast, my capstone project aims to design a cryogenic measurement system for material testing. While this project does not directly confront high-stakes consequences, it supports the advancement of quantum computing, a field that poses serious risks to data security and existing cybersecurity framworks. Therefore, research aimed at advancing quantum computing carries immense disruptive potential and must be regarded with careful ethical consideration, particularly regarding how the technology may be misused or weaponized. Although the two projects differ in scale and stakes, both highlight the importance of foresight, accountability, and ethical reasoning in engineering practice.

My technical work focuses on obtaining experimental data on material behavior at cryogenic temperatures for applications such as quantum computing. Specifically, my capstone project involved designing and manufacturing a rod-shaped insert for a 1 Kelvin evaporation fridge to measure material properties like thermal conductivity. The insert, constrained by the fridge’s narrow opening, was designed with a diameter just under two inches. It included vacuum-sealable components, elements to heat material samples, and sensors to monitor the temperature gradient at temperatures in the cryogenic range. Additionally, it featured a secure and interchangeable mounting system to allow easy replacement of samples. Overall, this project laid the groundwork for a novel experimental method to study materials under extreme conditions and support the optimization of materials for quantum computing implementations.

My STS research paper analyzes the ethical failures of key individuals during the Chernobyl disaster through the lens of virtue ethics, a framework that emphasizes character traits such as prudence and justice. The paper argues that Anatoly Dyatlov, Viktor Bryukhanov, and Soviet leadership acted immorally by neglecting safety protocols, misrepresenting information, and suppressing critical warnings about reactor risks. Drawing on firsthand reports, court testimonies, and trial verdicts, the paper shows how their decisions reflected poor ethical judgment and a disregard for moral responsibility in the high-risk environment of a nuclear power plant.

Working on both projects simultaneously deepened my understanding of the ethical responsibilities engineers hold when working with sensitive technologies. Although the stakes of my capstone project were not immediately high, it prompted me to think critically about the long-term ethical implications of contributing to powerful fields like quantum computing. My STS research on the Chernobyl disaster reminded me that technical decisions, even those that seem small or insignificant, can have far reaching consequences. Reflecting on the past tragedy of Cherobyl helped me grasp the importance of considering the moral responsibility engineers have in designing devices or testing existing systems. Working on the STS project has influenced my approach to future technical work, strengthening my awareness and commitment to transparency, safety, and accountability. These values, emphasized in virtue ethics, are essential for responsible engineering practice.

School of Engineering and Applied Science

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Technical Advisor: Ethan Scott

STS Advisor: Benjamin Laugelli

Technical Team Members: Matt Crowe, Quinn Early, Jaqueline Harkins, Kyle Holden,
Erik McKenna, Grace Milton, Mehki Rippey