(382bn) Uncovering Mechanistic insights through combined experimental and computational approaches

I am a PhD candidate in Chemical Engineering at the University of Virginia with four years of experience in heterogeneous catalysis and a strong foundation in both experimental and computational methodologies. My current research focuses on unraveling the fundamental mechanisms of NO(g) reduction over Pt/Al₂O₃ catalysts by combining kinetic measurements, spectroscopy, and reactor engineering with quantum chemical calculations and microkinetic modeling. This integrated approach enables a mechanistic understanding of catalytic processes and probe catalytic sites with specific coordination.

Through this experience, I cultivated expertise in synthesizing oxide-supported catalysts and characterizing active metal sites using DRIFTS, TEM, and chemisorption techniques. In addition, I designed, assembled, and calibrated continuous-flow reactor systems to conduct precise kinetic measurements. On the computational front, I leverage density functional theory (DFT), microkinetic modeling, and high-resolution data visualization to decode the reaction mechanisms and quantify the catalytic performance. This dual proficiency enables me to integrate theory and experiment, bridging atomic-scale insights with reactor-scale outcomes to guide the design and optimization of catalysts.

In addition to my academic research, I gained hands-on experience in emission system engineering during a co-op and internship at the Volvo Group Trucks Technology. There, I contributed to fault diagnostics, emissions testing, and process optimization, resulting in a 50% increase in regeneration timer efficiency. My role involved analyzing truck and test cell data, supporting BET and FTIR setups, and collaborating across engineering teams to ensure regulatory compliance and technical accuracy.

I am deeply committed to environmental sustainability and energy efficiency and thrive in interdisciplinary settings that demand adaptability, rapid skill acquisition, and collaborative problem-solving. My goal is to contribute to industrial and national laboratory efforts to develop advanced materials and catalytic processes for a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Research Interests

Experimental and computational roles in sustainable energy technologies, particularly in hydrogen combustion engines, battery research, fuel cells, and the broader field of fundamental catalysis.