As Jonah Bridges wraps up his Master of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) degree at NC State University this week, he’s already looking ahead. Instead of slowing down, he’s continuing in the same research group to pursue his Ph.D., deepening his commitment to the field he’s come to love.
Originally from New Melle, Missouri, a small town just outside of St. Louis, Jonah’s journey to graduate school began with a physics degree and a minor in astronomy from Truman State University. There, he also played on the soccer team. While he enjoyed astronomy, he realized the job opportunities in that field might be limited in terms of real-world impact. So, he turned to the “small scale” side of physics: applied quantum mechanics and intermolecular forces, where he saw greater potential to contribute in meaningful ways.
When it came time to apply to graduate programs, Jonah explored options in nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, and materials science. His visit to NC State MSE stood out. The welcoming atmosphere, strong department, impressive facilities, and vibrant campus life in Raleigh all made his decision easy. Although moving away from family and friends was tough, he felt confident that MSE offered the support and environment he needed to thrive.
“Graduate school is about constantly growing your understanding. Make the most of every class and research opportunity.”
Jonah Bridges, Master of MSE ‘25
Jonah’s research focuses on simulating the effects of point defects on the electronic properties of indium nitride, a semiconductor with a small bandgap. He finds it fascinating how a single imperfection can significantly change a material’s properties. By understanding these effects, researchers can tune materials to emit different wavelengths of light, opening the door for a variety of applications.
His graduate experience hasn’t been limited to research. Jonah also served as a teaching assistant (TA) during his first year, which he describes as instrumental in his learning process. His first assignment was a thermodynamics course. While he was already familiar with the subject from his physics background, teaching it forced him to look at the material from new angles and solidified his understanding. He appreciated the opportunity to help undergraduates see the material from a different perspective, and he still keeps in touch with some of the students he taught.
In his second semester, Jonah TA’d for a lab course. That experience gave him valuable exposure to the experimental side of materials science, complementing the simulation-based focus of his research. Leading lab sessions helped him draw clearer connections between physics principles and materials science applications, and expanded his understanding of the field as a whole.
Jonah has some clear advice for other graduate students. For those just starting, he emphasizes the importance of focusing on learning rather than just checking boxes. “Graduate school is about constantly growing your understanding. Make the most of every class and research opportunity,” he says. For current students, he stresses the value of balance. “You’re doing amazing work, but don’t forget to take care of yourself. Rest is part of the process.”
Outside the lab, Jonah enjoys longboarding. He even commutes to campus on an electric longboard when the weather cooperates. With curiosity, focus, and momentum on his side, Jonah is truly rolling into the future.
This story was adapted from the article published by the Graduate School.