How would you describe your research in 1 or 2 sentences? 

I am creating strong and lightweight plastics for structural applications by adding metal-oxide nanoparticles to a polymer matrix.   

Can you explain that a little further? 

There is a movement towards utilizing high-strength plastics rather than metals in structural materials, planes and cars to save on weight and fuel costs.  Normally plastics are not able to withstand the high forces and temperatures that metals can.  However, we can alter the properties of plastics with the addition of a variety of nanoscale particles.  The small size of the nanoparticles gives them extremely high surface areas relative to their volume.  Since the surfaces of the nanoparticles are very reactive, we can completely transform the properties of the plastic with only a few weight percents of nanoparticles.  We can also vary the chemical composition, shape, and interfacial interaction between the nanoparticles and the matrix to obtain specific properties.  

How did you decide to enter your field, and what brought you to your topic? 

I’ve been passionate about science for as long as I can remember, but I found my niche while an undergraduate working with nanoparticles in Cate Brinson’s advanced materials lab.  I was amazed that particles so small (about 1 billionth of a meter) could potentially make such a huge impact in the world.   

Who is your advisor? 

My research advisors are Cate Brinson of the Mechanical Engineering Department and Phil Messersmith of the Biomedical Engineering Department. 

What are your interests outside of research? 

I love endurance sports such as triathlon and cross-country running.  I am learning how to golf as well. 

What are your future plans? 

I haven’t decided for sure but I do know that I’d like to play a role in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship and influencing science policy.