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In celebration of Women's History Month, the March 2024 issue of Microscopy Today recognized the vital role that women have played in the founding, growth, and sustainability of the Microscopy Society of America (MSA) and the Microanalysis Society (MAS). The article paid special tribute to past presidents, including RJ Lee Group Senior Scientist Dr. Kristin Bunker, Ph.D., who served as MAS president from 2012–2014.
Dr. Bunker's involvement with the MAS began when she was a Ph.D. student in the Material Science and Engineering Department at North Carolina State University. Her advisor, Dr. Phil Russell, was an active member and supporter of the Microanalysis Society (MAS) and encouraged students in his group to submit abstracts for the annual Microcopy & Microanalysis (M&M) meeting and even provided funding for students to attend.
"I stayed involved with the society after graduating by serving as a Director from 2007-2009. I was asked to serve as President for 2012-2014, the first two-year term in the society." said Kristin. In her term as President, Kristin helped to plan the 2013 and 2014 M&M Meetings, assisted with topical conferences, student and society awards, local society meetings, society committees, and initiatives such as “MAS Meal with a Mentor”, and maintained the general business of the society. "One highlight was attending and presenting at the 2013 13th Annual European Microbeam Analysis Society (EMAS) Workshop in Porto, Portugal" shared Kristin.
Dr. Kristin Bunker is currently a Senior Scientist at RJ Lee Group, Inc. where she specializes in the analysis and characterization of materials utilizing ultra-high-resolution electron microscopy and X-ray spectroscopy techniques. She is the author or co-author of more than 40 publications covering topics in semiconductors, life sciences, mineralogy, and nanomaterials.