At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, my doctoral research has focused on chemically modifying polymer–substrate interfaces to elucidate the nanoscale behavior and structure–property relationships of confined ionomer thin films. By systematically designing and executing experiments, I have used a comprehensive suite of advanced characterization techniques including AFM, SEM, TEM, EDS, XPS, GISAXS, ellipsometry, and profilometry to investigate thin film morphology, surface chemistry, and mechanical and ionic transport properties. These tools have been crucial in diagnosing material performance and understanding interfacial phenomena that dictate ionic conductivity in confined environments. My experience with thin film deposition techniques, including spin coating, dip coating, and sputtering, enables me to consistently optimize conditions for film uniformity, adhesion, and reproducibility.
A recent project exemplifies my ability to design effective experiments and solve complex challenges. By modifying model silicon and gold substrates with aminosilanes and cysteamine, respectively, I deposited sulfonated ionomer films to investigate how interfacial chemistry governs ionic transport. Using a combination of AFM, EIS, CLSM, SEM-EDS, and GISAXS measurements, I demonstrated that hydration and surface functionalization at the substrate significantly influence film morphology and conductivity. These studies revealed that careful electrode surface modification allows precise control over ionomer chain arrangement, leading to up to fivefold improvements in ionic conductivity while dramatically altering water distribution near the substrate based on its wetting properties. To address measurement artifacts from interfacial resistance in ultrathin (<100 nm) films during EIS, I used a conductive paste contact method for reliable electrical connection to the interdigitated electrode (IDE) arrays fabricated via photolithography. This innovation enabled accurate determination of in-plane and through-plane proton conductivity, providing critical insights for optimizing ionomer performance in confined thin film applications.
My integrated approach combines structural and advanced functional characterization: GISAXS reveals nanostructural features and humidity-driven morphological changes; AFM and SEM provide detailed surface imaging; and XPS and FTIR elucidate chemical composition and functional group modifications. Complementary techniques such as DLS, zeta potential analysis, and QCM characterize colloidal stability and mass uptake, offering a complete picture of the physicochemical behavior of synthesized ionomer films.
Beyond my core ionomer work, I have contributed to projects on advanced polymer systems, including the design of styrene-calixarene ionomers with improved interfacial conductivity and the synthesis of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) during my M.Sc. at Tallinn University of Technology for selective protein detection. These interdisciplinary experiences have strengthened my ability to adapt polymer engineering skills to address a range of technological challenges, from sensors to membranes.
Sustainability is also central to my research motivation. By exploring plant-based materials like lignin as alternatives to petroleum-derived polymers, I have worked toward more environmentally friendly ionomer films, aligning material performance with renewable sourcing. My collaborative work in NSF- and DOE-funded projects demonstrates my ability to integrate advanced materials development with nanoscale diagnostics, requiring effective teamwork across disciplines and strong communication to drive progress on complex problems.
In addition to technical expertise, my leadership roles as President of the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) Omaha Post and Vice-President of the Electrochemical Society UNL Student Chapter have allowed me to mentor students, organize professional development events, and enforce laboratory safety protocols. Through these roles, I have cultivated skills in project coordination, team leadership, and outreach, including organizing STEM programs like Women in Science conferences, LPS Faculty Connector workshops, and Young Nebraska Scientists summer camps to inspire future scientists and engineers.
My teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant for undergraduate thermodynamics and chemical equilibrium courses has further honed my ability to explain complex concepts clearly and effectively—an essential skill for collaboration in multidisciplinary R&D environments. Additionally, my prior practical experience during an internship at Obule Medical Center (Nigeria) provided insights into the practical challenges of translating lab-scale research into scalable processes, reinforcing my understanding of industrial needs.
To support my experimental work, I have developed proficiency in software tools such as ChemDraw, OriginLab, ZView, Complete EASE, MATLAB, and ImageJ for data analysis and visualization, along with Python programming for automating workflows and modeling experimental systems.
Altogether, my research contributions, technical breadth, leadership experience, and commitment to sustainable innovation position me to make impactful contributions in industrial R&D focused on advanced polymer materials, electrochemical interfaces, and thin-film technologies. I am eager to bring my interdisciplinary expertise to collaborative projects that advance the next generation of materials and devices.