Tuesday 30 September 2025

UKNNL congratulates Nassia Tzelepi, our Senior Fellow for Graphite Technology, on being presented with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International’s highest honour – the Award of Merit.

ASTM International recognised Nassia for her exceptional contributions to subcommittee F on manufactured carbon and graphite products. The award, which includes the accompanying title of fellow, represents ASTM’s highest recognition for distinguished service and outstanding participation in committee activities.

Nassia was specifically commended for her reliable willingness to assist with any task, demonstrating remarkable versatility in editing technical papers, drafting critical standards, and leading subcommittees. This dedication has made her an invaluable contributor to the international standards community.

Advancing Nuclear Excellence and National Capabilities

Since becoming an ASTM International member in 2010, Nassia has built an impressive track record of recognition, previously receiving the Award of Appreciation (2014), the President’s Leadership Award (2016), the Award of Excellence (2021), and the Eagle Award (2022).

Throughout her career, Nassia has focused on graphite technology across multiple critical areas including supporting operating reactors, graphite waste management, and advanced modular reactors. This work directly supports UKNNL’s role as custodian of national capabilities and infrastructure critical for national and energy security, whilst delivering practical nuclear research that continues securing the safe operation of nuclear plants domestically and internationally.

Supporting the Wider Nuclear Sector

Nassia’s leadership in international standards development exemplifies UKNNL’s mission to become Government’s lead civil technical and strategic advisor for nuclear fuels and nuclear materials.Her expertise also demonstrates UKNNL’s commitment to championing and nurturing advanced nuclear skills – capabilities that are essential for the UK’s nuclear future and energy security objectives. By contributing to global standards, Nassia helps ensure that UK expertise remains at the forefront of international nuclear technology development.

Recognition of National and International Impact

The Award of Merit acknowledges those who have made significant contributions to ASTM’s mission of developing technical standards that improve product quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade, and build consumer confidence. Nassia’s recognition underscores how UKNNL’s expertise supports both national nuclear capabilities and international industry advancement.

This achievement reflects UKNNL’s broader commitment to providing expertise and facilities that serve as a platform for nuclear innovation, whilst maintaining the high standards essential for safe nuclear operations worldwide.

UKNNL congratulates Nassia on this outstanding achievement and her continued dedication to advancing nuclear technology excellence in service of national and international objectives.