People

Gabrielle Balistreri
PhD Student, Molecular Engineering & Sciences

NSF Graduate Research Fellow

Research Project: Development and processing of BCNPs for surface functionalization, drug incorporation and release, and biocompatibility studies

I completed my B.S. in Chemistry at the University of California San Diego in March 2021 where I researched silicon nanotechnology for diagnostic applications. In Fall 2021, I started in the Molecular Engineering PhD program at UW, and I initiated an interdisciplinary collaboration between Dr. Roumeli’s sustainable biomaterials lab and Dr. Nance’s disease-directed engineering lab. My co-advise position provides me with the opportunity to engineer bacterial cellulose nanoparticles as a novel and sustainably-sourced and formulated drug delivery system to treat neonatal brain injury. I am passionate about sustainable nanotherapeutics using green engineering and exploring the great outdoors in WA.

Ian Campbell
PhD Student, Materials Science & Engineering

NSF Graduate Research Fellow

Research Project: Processing and development of self-plasiticizing biocomposites using natural materials as a matrix

I graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a degree in Materials Science and Engineering in Dec, 2020. At Georgia Tech, I studied the processing of polymer composites by way of electrospinning and direct ink writing under the advisement of Dr. Blair Brettmann. Since beginning my PhD in material science in the fall of 2021, I have applied my knowledge of polymer science to begin the development of a physical analogue for biomatter plastics. I hope to combine these efforts with the extraction of macromolecules from biomatter to identify mechanisms governing self-bonding in algal bioplastics.

Richard Colwell
PhD Student, Materials Science & Engineering

NSF Graduate Research Fellow, ARCS Fellow, Herbold Fellow

Research Project: Design Rules for Durable and Degradable Bioplastics from Algal Biomatter

I graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a degree in Materials Science and Engineering in June, 2021. After graduation, I developed plant-based meat products using novel fiber-spinning techniques at Tender Food as a materials research associate. Then, I evaluated bio-based, biodegradable plastics for various applications at Amazon within the Worldwide Sustainability organization. In my PhD, I seek to deepen our fundamental knowledge of how bio-based materials’ structures influence their properties, facilitating their use in sustainable applications.

Julia Didier
PhD Student, Materials Science & Engineering

Research Project: Biosynthesis, processing, and biomedical applications of bacterial cellulose materials

With a background in chemical engineering and biotechnology, my research explores how bacterial growth conditions shape cellulose fiber formation and network architecture, and how these parameters can be tuned through processing to design functional materials. I am particularly interested in developing bacterial cellulose-based hydrogels and foams for wound dressing and drug delivery applications, integrating sustainable materials design with biomedical performance.

Hareesh Iyer
PhD Student, Materials Science & Engineering

CEI Education and Training Fellow

Research Project: Plasticization of biomass through mechanical and thermal treatments

I got my Master's from the department of Materials Science and Engineering at the UW. Previously, I received my B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University in 2017. In-between I was working with composites in the aerospace industry. My goal is to use my mechanical background to facilitate the development and characterization of bio-based polymers and explore machine learning tools to assist us in the more efficient design of sustainable materials.

Kuotian Liao
PhD Student, Materials Science & Engineering

CEI Graduate Fellow

Research Project: Design and characterization of biomatter-polymer/biomatter biocomposites

My background is in mechanical and structural engineering, with emphasis on energy conversion systems, and later structural analysis & modeling of fiber composites as well as 3D printed materials. My current research emphasizes obtaining fundamental understandings of processing - properties relationships in a wide range of synthetic as well as bio-synthesized material systems.

Meng-Yen Lin
PhD Student, Materials Science & Engineering

CEI Graduate Fellow

Research Project: Biomass-laden cement biocomposites as sustainable structural materials

I obtained my Master's degree in civil engineering with a focus on structural materials at the National Cheng Kung University (Taiwan). My previous research focused on the elastoplastic behavior of foam and reuse of industrial byproducts as constructional materials. I am currently investigating the interaction between biomass (e.g., algae cells) with cements and its structure-properties relationships.

Brandon Lou
PhD Student, Materials Science & Engineering

Research Project: Zeolite-cement composite systems for sustainable structural materials 

I have received both my B.S. and M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Washington. Having previously conducted research on algal biomass-cement composites, I am now studying zeolite as a partial replacement for cement in concrete composite systems with collaborative guidance and supervision from
Dr. Roumeli and Dr. Arola. Outside of my research in structural materials, I am the co-founder of a medical device startup with the aim of improving gastrointestinal surgeries.

Aban Mandal
PhD Student, Materials Science & Engineering

Herbold Fellow

Research Project: Fundamental Biopolymer Interactions in Multicomponent Systems for Designing Sustainable Bulk Materials 

I completed my Bachelor of Engineering in Metallurgical and Material Engineering from Jadavpur University, where I conducted research on the synthesis of mixed metal oxide-graphene composites for heavy metal removal—work with potential applications in water purification. Currently, I am focused on understanding the physics of biopolymers, particularly the interactions governing biopolymer and colloidal systems. My work aims to develop understanding for predictive models that can correlate the phenomenological behavior of biopolymer systems with the mechanical properties of the hydrogel, films and foams derived from them. Through this research, I hope to advance eco-friendly, high-performance materials for structural and industrial applications, promoting sustainability at both molecular and manufacturing scales.

Daniel Mendoza
PhD Student, Molecular Engineering & Sciences

College of Engineering Dean’s Fellow

Research Project: Tuning the Mechanical Properties of Bacterial Cellulose Hydrogels via Protein Additives 

I am a first year rotating PhD Student in the Department of Molecular Engineering. In 2025, I graduated with my B.S. in Molecular Biology at Yale University. My previous research experience spans various disciplines such as plant biology and bioengineering, with my most recent experience in the DeForest lab at UW where I worked on developing selectably degradable interpenetrating polymer network hydrogels. In my PhD, I am interested in developing sustainable, programmable biomaterials for applications in biomedicine and agriculture. Outside of academics, I am a plant and aquarium enthusiast, and I volunteer at the Seattle Aquarium in my free time. 

Charlie Durbin
Master's student (October 2025)

Research Project: Process scalability analysis of energy-performance relationships in sustainable bacterial cellulose functionalization using deep eutectic solvents

I completed my B.S. in Chemistry from Rollins College, where I conducted research on the synthesis of small organic molecules. After graduating, I worked in industry at a company focused on textile recycling, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable materials and polymer processing. I am currently a first-year M.S. student in MSE, where my research focuses on helping develop scalable process models for cellulose functionalization using sustainable solvents. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, running, and exploring the outdoors!

Brenda Ellis
Master's student (November 2025)

Research Project: Tuning of Bacterial Cellulose Properties via Linking Growth Conditions to Structural Outcomes

I graduated from Tulane University in May of 2025 with a B.S. in chemical engineering. I’m currently pursuing a M.S. in material science and engineering. My research is focused on bacterial cellulose-based materials and I’m excited to explore through the research process! 

Junhao Lin
Master's student (November 2025)

Research Project: Protein–Bacterial Cellulose Interactions: Responsive Gels and Foam Processing

I am a master’s student in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Washington. I am passionate about designing high-performance and sustainable biomaterials and hope these materials can serve as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based materials, contributing to the advancement of green technology. In my free time, I enjoy walking, traveling, and playing the piano, finding inspiration and joy through exploring the world and music.

Margaret Jones
Master's student (October 2025)

Research Project: TBD

Conor McGovern
Master's student (October 2025)

Research Project: Processing and Mechanical Behavior of Bacterial Cellulose–Based Foams

I’m a first-year MSE grad student here at UW. I’m coming from a background in Manufacturing Process Engineering, where I worked for three years before deciding to pursue my passion to engineer sports apparel and athletic footwear. I am very excited to explore the RnD side of the engineering process for the project, something I missed in industry. When I’m not working on my project, I enjoy traveling, photography or sports.

Mia Omdal
Master's student (October 2025)

Research Project: Development of algal bioadhesives

I graduated from the University of Washington in 2023 with a bachelor's degree in Chemistry. After my degree I traveled for two years. I am now in the Applied Master's Program in the Materials Science and Engineering department. In my free time I like to knit, ski, and read.

Dylan Parker
Master's student (October 2025)

Research Project: Understanding Cellulose-Solvent interactions Towards Nanocellulose Colloidal Behaviour

I graduated from UCLA with a B.S. in Materials Science, where I conducted research on bio-inspired hydrogels designed for artificial muscle applications. As a first-year master’s student, I am excited to dive into the realm of sustainable polymers and support the development of high-performing bio-based films and foams. In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer, playing the piano, and travelling with friends.

Meghan Dillon
Undergraduate student

Research Project: Development and design of sustainable algal biofoams through mechanical and thermal treatments

I am a third year chemical engineering undergraduate student. Currently, I’m exploring the use of algal biofoams for insulation materials. Outside of academics I love to spend my free time hiking, reading, and exploring Washington. 

Wren Kitchings
Undergraduate student

Research Project: Analyzing the impact of different algal macromolecules on bioplastic performance

I am a sophomore in bioengineering with a focus in nanomolecular engineering. Currently, I am exploring how isolating various macromolecules from algae can improve their bioplastic performance. I enjoy learning about the different types of biomaterials and their numerous uses. In my free time, I enjoy painting, writing, and gardening.

Jennifer Tran
Undergraduate student

Research Project: Understanding bacterial growth during cellulose synthesis

I am a second year undergraduate student majoring in biochemistry. I am fascinated by how life works on a smaller scale, and I look forward to expanding my knowledge. Outside of school, I enjoy running and going on long walks, especially when the weather is cold. 

Arthur Gim
Undergraduate student

Research Project: High-throughput fabrication of algal bioplastic for ML-assisted  optimization

I am a 2nd year undergraduate in the engineering department at the University of Washington. I look forward to using my engineering skills to improve the health of others and to lead a sustainable future. I am excited to learn all about fabrication of bioplastics and other polymers at the Roumeli lab. In my free time, I love exercising in the gym, practicing my clarinet, and playing video games.

Helen Feldhaus
Undergraduate student (June 2024)

Research Project: Molecular Analysis and Chemical Evaluation of Algae

I am a third year chemical engineering student at the UW. I am currently working on extraction of macromolecules from algae to investigate their effects on algal bioplastics. Outside of academics I enjoy skiing, playing rugby, and spending time outdoors. I look forward to exploring my interests in nanoengineering to create a more sustainable future!

Etta Shack
Undergraduate student

Research Project: High-throughput fabrication of algal bioplastic for ML-assisted  optimization

I am a second year undergraduate studying biochemistry. I am excited to build an understanding of the macromolecules responsible for self-bonding in algal bioplastics and assist in the fabrication of sustainable materials. Outside my academics, I love playing jazz trombone and dancing to live music!

Gabe Wylie
Undergraduate student (December 2024)

Research Project: Design and Characterization of Ternary Multicomponent Polymer Systems for Hydrogel and Foam Applications

I am a third year chemical engineering undergraduate at the UW. I am excited to be working to develop advanced multicomponent biopolymer systems to improve the mechanical and functional properties of hydrogels and foams. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, cooking, and playing video games.

Cameron Moore
Undergraduate student (January 2025)

Research Project: Understanding how biopolymers interact to form foams and hydrogels

I am a sophomore in Materials Science and Engineering here at the UW. My goal in studying biomaterials is to make them better and more accessible so that they become a preferable option to their petroleum based counterparts. Outside of academia, I enjoy playing soccer and going to the beach!

Christian  Schwarz
Undergraduate student (January 2025)

Research Project: Effect of post-conditioning on bioplastics from various biomatter

I am a first year undergraduate student in the college of engineering at UW. I am interested in exploring the use of algae to create more sustainable bioplastics and investigating conditional effects on the physical properties and performance of algal plastics. Outside of school I enjoy skiing, climbing, backpacking, making pottery, and reading.

Hathiq Ashrafi
Undergraduate student (January 2025)

Research Project: Biochar derived from Algal Biomass with Thermal Pyrolysis as a Sustainable Filler in Cement Composites

I am a second year chemical engineering undergraduate student at UW. I am excited to use my skills to learn more about sustainable materials, their properties, and their real world applications. Outside of academics, I enjoy hiking, playing soccer, and video games!

Maxine Lovelace
Undergraduate student (January 2025)

Research Project: Optimizing production parameters for material performance of algal bioplastics

I am a third-year Chemical Engineering student at the University of Washington. My research primarily explores algae derived plastic products and the impact of various process constraints on their performance. Outside of academics, I enjoy snowboarding, boxing, and discovering new restaurants.

Caden Ng
Undergraduate student (October 2025)

Research Project: Stability of bacterial-cellulose colloids

I am a second year chemical engineering student at UW. Currently I am working with understanding the stability of various concentrations of BC colloids and am super excited to learn more about biopolymers as a whole. Outside of school, I enjoy hiking, and playing or watching football and basketball. 

Phoebe Bowers
Undergraduate student (October 2025)

Research Project: Characterization of Polymer Systems in Foams and Hydrogels

I am a third year undergraduate in Materials Science and Engineering. I'm passionate about biomaterials, materials processing, and how materials break down. I'm excited to learn about polymer systems and characterization techniques. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading, creative writing, and journaling.

Alice Rudders
Undergraduate student (October 2025)

Research Project: Deep Eutectic Solvent Treatment for Bacterial Cellulose

I am a second year undergraduate in Materials Science and Engineering at UW. I'm excited to be learning more about polymers and sustainable materials development. In my free time, I like to cook and play viola.

Scarlett Streitman
Undergraduate student (June 2025)

Research Project: Developing Environmental Chamber for Microbial Cultures

I am a senior majoring in Electrical & Computer Engineering here at UW. I am excited to learn more about the fabrication of sustainable materials and apply my engineering skills to these processes. Outside of school, I enjoy playing guitar and piano, reading, and drawing.