Professional Summary
As a dedicated PhD student in Polymer Science, I am passionate about transforming raw materials into valuable innovations. My research focuses on developing sustainable solutions for advancing sensing technologies by exfoliating and incorporating flake graphite into polymers. Our lab’s mission is to add extreme value to hyperabundant raw materials.
Work Experience
- Conducting research on graphene-based polymer composites in the Adamson Lab, focusing on developing advanced materials for various applications (sensing, environmental remediation, analytical testing).
- Coded Python scripts to automate lab processes and control instrumentation (Keithley 2400, analytical balance, etc)
- Streamlined data processing through Visual Basic for Applications scripts, which reduced turn around times by >80%.
- Reduced consumables costs by over 70% through value-driven sourcing.
- Utilized advanced instrumentation including Agilent 1260 Infinity and QSight 420.
- Developed a method development protocol for validation of cannabinoid test methods, ensuring A2LA compliance and regulatory standards.
Contributed to laboratory operations and assisted in various analytical procedures.
Leadership & Volunteer Experience
- Founded and served as President of the American Chemical Society Rubber Division UConn Chapter, establishing the organization and leading initiatives to advance rubber science and technology education.
- Led the Society of Plastics Engineers UConn Chapter, organizing professional development events and fostering connections between students and industry professionals in the plastics engineering field
- Navigated the chapter through a funding crisis.
- Served as a Guide for the Graduate Employee Union-UAW Local 6950
- Pioneered a thematic redistricting for the ~2,400 person Union
- Represented UConn students as a Senator for the Society of Plastics Engineers, advocating for student interests and participating in organizational decision-making processes.
- Volunteered as a tour guide for UConn’s “Empowering Kids” STEM outreach program, leading groups of 85+ eighth-grade students from six Connecticut school districts through hands-on learning stations including fuel cell technology demonstrations, solar energy applications, and engineering challenges.
Certifications
Presentations
Polyelectrolyte-encapsulated graphene-nylon microcapsules for osmotic water treatment
- ACS Spring 2024, New Orleans
Polyamide-graphene microcapsules for forward-osmotic and photothermal water desalination
- UConn IMS Industry Affiliates Program 2024 Yearly Meeting
Publications & Awards
Synthetic Metals, 2025
2023, 2024