Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Notre Dame
Angela Abarca-Perez is a first-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering & Earth Sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering at the Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP) in Puebla, Mexico. Continue reading below to learn why she chose to take part in Notre Dame's Materials Science and Engineering doctorate program.
What piqued your interest in materials research?
My research experience at UPAEP, alongside a passion for teaching that I developed as a high school science teacher, motivated me to pursue a Ph.D. on a topic at the intersection of the environment and materials science.
I was first introduced to materials science on a research project focused on the synthesis of silver and chromium nanoparticles using the extract of water lilies as the reductant. The goal was to develop an eco-friendly method of synthesizing metallic nanoparticles using a plant that is considered invasive and harmful to the environment. Using computational simulations to obtain the design parameters, we successfully synthesized the metallic nanoparticles. I used this project for my senior thesis, and it gave me the knowledge and skills to begin my graduate career.
What brought you to Notre Dame?
In 2017, I came to Notre Dame for a year-long study abroad program in CEEES. In summer 2018, I was awarded an NDnano Undergraduate Research Fellowship at Notre Dame. I worked with Prof. Kyle Doudrick’s group to investigate the sorption of organic acids onto titanium dioxide nanoparticles to improve nanoparticle transport modeling. I developed data-analysis skills by modeling the results using thermodynamic equations and new knowledge about materials chemistry by learning new synthesis techniques for TiO2 nanoparticles. This also gave me the opportunity to return to Notre Dame to pursue a Ph.D. at the interface between the environment and materials science. I started my Ph.D. in January 2021 in Prof. Doudrick’s group, and I hope to continue my career in academia.
Tell us about your graduate research and your decision to pursue the interdisciplinary materials degree.
I am studying polymeric membranes embedded with catalytic metallic nanoparticles for treating contaminants in drinking water. My current catalytic membrane consists of a calcium alginate hydrogel matrix, and while it is effective at treating contaminants, I do not have much control over the properties of the catalytic layer. As part of my project, I will be collaborating with Prof. William Phillip’s group to learn how to make polymer membranes with more controlled nanostructures. I will also be taking classes on catalysis and polymer science and engineering. My goal is to continue improving the use of catalytic membranes for water treatment by moving towards developing single-atom catalysts that can have a higher removal efficiency of recalcitrant pollutants at a lower cost.
The vast involvement in materials science I’ve had since beginning my journey as an environmental engineer made me highly interested in joining the new materials program. This opportunity will allow me to strengthen my lab skills, deepen my fundamental materials science knowledge, develop a professional network in this field, and fulfill my ultimate goal to build a successful career in academia.
On a personal note, what is your favorite location on campus?
There are many beautiful places on campus, but my favorite place is the library lawn, especially on a chilly afternoon by the bonfire, when the twinkle lights are on. It’s a peaceful and cozy place, with two great views – in front of the library’s Touchdown Jesus, and in back the Stadium.