Bachelors – 2015 North Carolina State University Doctorate – 2022 Georgia Institute of Technology Current – Post-Doctoral Researcher in the Center for Plastics Innovation (co-advised by Dr. LaShanda Korley) In his Ph.D., Alex worked with Dr. Natalie Stingelin at Georgia Tech on structure-property interrelations for polymers in photonics and electronics. He worked on high refractive index polymer hybrids and advanced calorimetric techniques for semiconducting polymers. Alex joined the Center for Plastics Innovation in May 2022 as a post-doctoral researcher working on valorizing plastic waste. Outside of research, Alex enjoys playing several sports and is an avid golfer.

Bachelors – 2018 Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati
Doctorate – 2022 Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati
Current – Post-Doctoral Researcher in the Epps group.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, a master’s in material science, and a doctorate in extended materials research on fuel cell technology from the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. After completing my PhD, I worked at the University of Massachusetts from 2022 to 2023. Currently, I focus on in-situ characterization of fuel cells, conducting real-time experimental measurements to advance the field. Outside of my professional work, I enjoy playing the guitar as a fan of rock and roll music, and cooking a variety of cuisines as part of my hobbies.

Bachelors – 2018 Auburn University
Doctorate – 2023 Texas A&M University
Current – Post-Doctoral Researcher in the Epps group.

In his Ph.D., Kevin worked with Dr. Yossef (Joe) Elabd on the synthesis and characterization of star poly(ionic liquid) homopolymers and block copolymers for lithium-ion batteries. Kevin joined the Epps group in July 2023 as a postdoctoral researcher working on depolymerization of polymers. Outside of research, Kevin enjoys weightlifting, sports, and watching tv shows and movies.

Bachelors – 2016 Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
Doctorate – 2024 Miami University, Oxford, Ohio
Current – Post-Doctoral Researcher in the Epps Group.

Tochukwu holds a Doctorate in Polymer Chemistry from Miami University. In pursuit of this degree, she worked with Dr Dominik Konkolewicz on polymerization kinetics, controlled radical polymerization and photoresponsive polymers. As a Post-Doctoral researcher, Tochukwu is currently co-advised by Dr.Thomas Epps and Dr. Lashanda Korley and her research effort is geared towards valorizing waste products to enhance polymer sustainability efforts.Tochukwu enjoys listening to music, good food and walking.

Bachelors – 2015 University of Pittsburgh
Doctorate – 2022 University of Delaware
Current – Post-Doctoral Researcher in the Epps Group

Robert joined the Epps group in December of 2017. His research involves bio-based polymers with a focus on block polymers for lithium-ion battery membrane technology. Outside of the lab, Robert enjoys hiking, traveling, and photography.

Bachelors – 2019 Northwestern Polytechnical University, China
Current – Graduate Student
Sara joined the Epps Group in fall of 2019. Her interest in helping the world energy issue has motivated her to pursue the research on lithium-ion batteries. Outside of research, Sara enjoys playing tennis, traveling and hanging out with friends.

Undergraduate Student – University of Delaware (Class of 2027)

Jenna Hess is a sophomore chemical engineering student minoring in environmental sustainability and materials science. Her main goal is to help contribute to the study of renewable energy and polymers. She is working with Sara to research polymer electrolytes for lithium ion batteries. On campus, she is involved with Engineers Without Borders, University of Delaware Alternative Breaks, and Collar Scholars. In her spare time, she loves traveling, painting, and taking her dog to the beach.

Undergraduate Student – University of Delaware (Class of 2027)

Devin Tavares is a sophomore chemical engineering student with a minor in sustainable energy technology and Spanish. His interest in the push for sustainability is what interested him in becoming involved in research. He is working on the valorization of biomass with Alison Shapiro. Outside of the lab, Devin is involved in CHEM E car club here at the University of Delaware. He also loves traveling, spending time with family and friends, reading, and walking his dogs.