EXPERIENCE

During the summer of 2024, I worked alongside Jack H. Lloyd, a PhD student in Professor Liu's lab, on research exploring the environmental impacts of 6PPD, a widely used tire additive, and its oxidation product 6PPD-quinone (6PPDQ), which has been linked to Coho salmon mortality. My work focused on investigating the biodegradation and photodegradation pathways of these chemicals in marine environments, providing critical insights into their persistence and potential mitigation strategies.

Key contributions included:

• Researched and evaluated project directions after the original proposal was declined, preparing background analyses and presenting a PowerPoint proposal to the professor and PhD mentor.
   

• Conducted experimental tasks such as measuring and collecting water samples, refining procedures, and supporting ongoing lab projects.
   

• Collaborated with researchers across multiple labs:
   

  • Performed FTIR analysis of plastic nurdles from beaches to identify polymer composition.
     

  • Assisted with mangrove blue carbon research by preparing and condensing root samples and maintaining lab equipment.
     

• Applied strong communication and analytical skills to contribute to multidisciplinary environmental research with real-world societal benefits.