Anisha Sharma

Anisha Sharma is a PhD candidate in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering in the McCormick School of Engineering. Her research focuses on developing polymer materials that combine the recyclability of thermoplastics with the durability of thermosets. Driven by a longstanding interest in environmental sustainability, Anisha explores how polymer chemistry influences both the mechanical performance and recyclability of these innovative materials, advancing solutions at the intersection of materials science and environmental responsibility. Anisha is also a recipient of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program, which supports outstanding STEM graduate students pursuing research-based master's and doctoral degrees. 

How would you describe your research and/or work to a non-academic audience? 
Broadly speaking, polymers can be divided into two groups—thermoplastics, ones that can melt like a plastic water bottle, and thermosets, ones that can’t like a silicone spatula. I am working with polymer materials that combine the recyclability of thermoplastics with the durability of thermosets and trying to understand how different chemistries affect the recyclability and mechanical properties of these materials. 
 
Tell us what inspired your research and/or work. 
I have always been interested in the environment and knew that was something I wanted to help. As a materials science undergrad, I saw many amazing technologies being made in this area to address all sorts of environmental problems. I particularly enjoyed learning about the polymer field and wanted to further explore this area in graduate school as it relates to environmental issues and fundamental polymer science. 
 
What do you find both rewarding and challenging about your research and/or work? 
Things may not always be what they seem like at the beginning—another experiment might show something that leads to a different conclusion from what you may have originally thought. While that may be disheartening initially, that also makes the process exciting because there is more to learn and dig deeper into. 
 
How do you unwind after a long day? 
I love to draw and exercise! I also enjoy going for walks, whether along the lake or exploring a new trail. 
 
What inspires you? 
I am inspired by the earth. I love spending time outdoors and connecting with nature—it allows me to reset and think more clearly. 
 
What advice would you give your younger self or someone considering a similar path? 
I would say to ask lots of questions—it can help you solve problems you run into faster and help clear difficult concepts that may otherwise stay fuzzy for a while. You may also learn relevant pieces of information that you didn’t know you needed to know. Many times, you have the same questions others have as well. 
 
Are you the recipient of a Northwestern University Fellowship? If so, please list them below. 
Not a university fellowship, but the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program 
 

Published Date: September 15, 2026