Degree: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with ACS Certification
Research Professor: Professor Charlie Machan

Biography

Julia is from Clifton, VA, graduating from Centreville High School. She is graduating from the University of Virginia with a B.S. in Chemistry with ACS Certification and a B.A. in Environmental Science.

Since January 2018, she’s worked with Dr. Charles Machan on transition metal catalysts for energy relevant transformations. In her first project, she worked with then graduate student Dr. Shelby Hooe to report the first highly efficient molecular chromium catalyst for the electroreduction of CO2 to CO, an important building block for many valuable synthetic chemicals and fuels. She then transitioned to an independent project by developing a similar nickel catalyst and evaluating it as a catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction, which can be used in carbon-neutral fuel cells. Her work has been recognized with the ACS Division of Inorganic Chemistry Award for Undergraduate Research.

Outside of the lab, Julia has been heavily involved in science education and outreach as a teaching assistant for CHEM 1820 and 2810 on the accelerated chemistry track, a board member of the ACS Student Chapter at UVA, and on the College Science Scholars Council Outreach Committee. She’s also continued her lifelong dance hobby with the University Dance Club.

After graduation, Julia will pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry as a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow at Stanford University where she plans to expand her understanding of clean energy relevant chemistry and continue her engagements in science education and outreach.