People

Facility Director

Amber Johnson
Office: 4418 Stadium Drive, 1104
Email: ajohns37@umd.edu
Phone: 301-405-7756

Amber is the Director of the Research Reactor and Radiation Facilities at the University of Maryland, College Park. With extensive experience as an operator of both a research reactor and particle accelerators, Amber is deeply committed to maintaining a strong nuclear safety culture and overseeing compliance with all regulatory requirements. She always seeks out opportunities for advancement, leveraging campus resources to expand her skills in team building and the creative aspects of her role. Amber also supports the Test, Research, and Training Reactor (TRTR) community through her service as secretary and the production of a quarterly newsletter. Amber’s passion for both the technical and leadership aspects of her role make her a driving force in advancing the university’s mission of education and research.

Reactor Operations Manager 

Luke Gilde
Office: 4418 Stadium Drive, 2309D
Email: lgilde@umd.edu
Phone: 410-972-9675

Luke is the Reactor Operations Manager at the University of Maryland. With a strong background in research reactors, he has been instrumental in modernizing the Maryland University Training Reactor (MUTR) and enhancing its capabilities. His expertise has been applied to upgrade the MUTR’s instrumentation and control systems, as well as to improve its capabilities for Neutron Activation Analysis and reactor parameter measurements, contributing directly to advancing research, education, and the future of nuclear technology.

Radiation Systems Manager

Mike Hottinger
Office: 4418 Stadium Drive, 2309D
Email: mkhott@umd.edu

Michael has been working with the radiation facilities since 2018. He graduated from the University of Maryland in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and has stayed with the facility working full time since then. Michael likes to spend his free time on his apple orchard in upstate NY growing heritage apple varieties.

Business and Outreach Coordinator 

Drena Goddard
Office: 4418 Stadium Drive, 2309D
Email: drena@umd.edu
Phone: 301-405-1920

Drena serves as the Business Coordinator for the Radiation Group here at the University of Maryland. I have been in this role for approximately 19 months. I enjoy reading, watching Christmas movies and taking classes at my church.