We’re proud to shine this Alumni Spotlight on Gabriel Paynter, a 2021 graduate of Hilliard Bradley High School, who was recently awarded a prestigious Fulbright/University of York Award to pursue his graduate studies in the United Kingdom.
Gabriel graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Astrophysics and a minor in Mathematics. While studying at UC, he developed a passion for plasma physics and fusion energy during an internship at General Atomics in San Diego. There, he contributed to work on inertial confinement fusion targets—advancing metrology techniques essential for clean energy research.
Following his internship, Gabriel continued research in experimental condensed matter physics, investigating how certain materials behave under high magnetic fields. His primary academic interest lies in magnetic confinement fusion—an area that seeks to make fusion energy a viable, sustainable power source for the future.
As a Fulbright Scholar, Gabriel will study at the University of York, completing an MSc in Fusion Energy. The program will not only deepen his understanding of plasma and fusion science but also give him the opportunity to collaborate with top institutions in the international fusion research community. Following completion of his Fulbright year at the University of York, he will attend Princeton University, where he has been accepted to the PhD program in plasma physics.
Beyond academics, Gabriel is committed to community science outreach and has volunteered with groups dedicated to increasing access to scientific and historical records. He looks forward to continuing this work while in York. A talented musician, Gabriel also plays the alto saxophone and is excited to engage with the music scene in the UK.
Congratulations to Gabriel on this outstanding achievement! The Hilliard community is proud to celebrate your success and the impact you’re making in the world of science and beyond.
If you have alumni you would like to see spotlighted, click here to send us an email!
