How did you become interested in STEM topics?

My father ran a business that involved filtration systems, and I had always been good at science and math, so when I entered Nanjing Normal University, in my native China, I opted to study chemistry. After earning my undergraduate degree in 2016, I had to carefully consider what my next steps would be, and I decided that I wanted to come to the US. I’m am only child, and I knew my parents would be upset at the prospect of me living that far away, but once I was accepted to various programs, I was determined to go. As I expected, they were not fully happy about my decision to attend Stony Brook, but they eventually came around, and they’re very proud of me now. I earned my PhD in Chemistry in 2021 and have since written several papers and given multiple conference presentations.

Describe your academic journey and research up until now

I’m currently a post-doctoral research assistant at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where I study the possibilities of recovering nutrients from urine using a tubular membrane reactor. I’m also working on a USDA-funded project aimed at efficient nutrient recovery from animal manure using hollow-fiber ion exchange membranes.

How do you feel about participating in the Faculty First Look program?

At the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, I work in the lab run by Professor Lee Blaney, whose focus is on the intersection of fundamental and applied aspects of analytical, environmental, inorganic, organic, and toxicological chemistry. A few of us in the lab applied to Faculty First Look–unbeknowst to the others. It seemed so lucky when we all got accepted, and I know Professor Blaney feels very proud of all of us. I hope to learn more about the different stages of the job application process, from writing statements to giving a compelling job talk.

What are your ultimate goals?

I was a teaching assistant at Stony Brook, and I’ve lectured in Baltimore County, and I love that aspect of being in academia, I;ve mentored about a dozen students during my journey so far, from high school students exploring STEM to PhD candidates. My ideal job would encompass teaching, mentoring, and research.