Leadership

Justin Chen (Sim Group)

chenjs5@uci.edu

Hi, I’m Justin Chen and I am a Ph.D. Candidate in the Sim Lab. I graduated from UC San Diego with a B.S. in Biochemistry. There, I helped develop nanomaterials for coral reef restoration at the Coral Reef Engineering lab. My current research is in developing new forms of living materials through complex coacervates for synergistic biocatalysis. Outside the lab, I love exploring new artistic mediums (paint, metals, fiber, etc.) or visiting new cafés!

Roman Shrestha (Guan Group)

shrestr1@uci.edu 

My name is Roman Shrestha, and I am a PhD candidate in Chemistry in the Guan Lab. I grew up in Chitwan, Nepal, before moving to Denver, Colorado, to pursue my B.S. in Chemistry at the University of Denver, where I worked on synthesizing Ru-based fluorescent probes for ethylene detection. At UCI, my research focuses on developing universal compatibilization strategies for mixed plastic waste. Outside of the lab, I enjoy traveling to new places, cooking, and exploring different cuisines.  

Riya Singh (Patterson Group)

singhr7@uci.edu

I’m Riya Singh, and I’m a Ph.D. candidate in Chemistry in the Patterson Lab. I received my integrated B.S. and M.S. in Chemistry from the National Institute of Science Education and Research in Bhubaneswar, India, in 2022. At UCI, my research explores how polymers form and self-assemble, and how these processes influence one another. I love sharing my enthusiasm for science, mentoring students, and bringing people together. I’m also passionate about lab safety and helping create a supportive environment for everyone. Outside the lab, I enjoy road trips, watching sunsets at the beach, dancing, and spending time with my family.

Sheng Wei Tang (Ardoña  Group)

shengwt@uci.edu 

My name is Sheng Wei Tang, and I am a chemistry PhD student in the Ardoña lab. I received my B.S. degree in Chemistry from The Ohio State University in 2023. As a ChAMP Chemistry student, I am interested in the design and characterization of soft nanoelectronics and its applications. I am currently working on cell-interacting peptide assemblies capable of tunable energy transport as in cellulo and ex cellulo networks. Outside the lab, I enjoy playing badminton, arranging scores on my keyboard, and trying out new restaurants.