Group Members

Postdocs

Younggul Hur

Dr. Young Gul Hur

I earned my PhD in chemical engineering from Korea University in 2017, focusing on the effects of transition metal catalysts on the hydrocracking reactions of heavy oil under the guidance of Professor Kwan-Young Lee. Following that, I undertook a postdoctoral research position at Purdue University, working with Raj Gounder until 2020. During this time, my research centered on synthesizing and designing zeolites and porous materials with tailored site and surface properties. I also developed methods for characterizing and titrating active sites on catalytic surfaces. In 2020, I transitioned to practical research at Hyundai Motor Company's R&D division, with a focus on environmental protection and the development of sustainable, low-carbon footprint pathways for hydrogen and fuel synthesis. My work included conducting research from lab-scale to bench-scale on nickel-based catalysts for clean hydrogen production. Additionally, I extensively researched catalyst technology for synthesizing synthetic gasoline from synthetic gas via methanol to gasoline conversion. In 2023, I joined the Harris Group and am currently involved in our DOE-funded ethanol-to-jet fuel project.


Adam Twombly

Dr. Adam Twombly

I graduated with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of New Hampshire in 2018 and received my Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Tufts University in 2023. My doctoral thesis work dealt with the selective conversion of small molecules on microporous transition metal oxides. I joined the Harris group as a postdoctoral scholar in the summer of 2023 to conduct research in the field of hydrogen storage and release. In my free time my interests are primarily in  music, gaming, and martial arts. 

Graduate Students

Headshot of Shivangi Borate

Shivangi Borate

I graduated from Otto von Guericke University, Germany with an MSc in Chemical and Energy Engineering. I did my master's thesis at the Max Planck Institute, Germany (MPI) and it focused on reaction intermediate study of an electro-catalytic reaction in alkaline fuel cells. I joined Dr. Harris' group as a PhD student in Fall '21 and my research focuses on alcohol upgrading to renewable fuels and chemicals. I aim to use my research to improve renewable chemicals production and in turn to protect the environment. Outside of research, I enjoy cooking, playing badminton and travel to historical places 

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Sydney Foster

I graduated from the University of Massachusetts with BS, MS in Chemical Engineering in Summer 2021. At UMass I worked on zeolite synthesis, polymer synthesis, and post synthetic zeolite modification. I’ve joined the Harris group as a PhD student to work on a collaborative effort to realize catalytic technologies for hydrogen economies. Innovation and intelligent design for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship are the drumbeat of my professional interest, but increasing accessibility to the fields of STEM is near to my heart. Casually I enjoy viticulture, metal working, and writing/reading high fantasy.

Headshot of Ethan Iaia

Ethan Iaia

I graduated from The Ohio State University in May 2021 with a BS in Chemical Engineering. During my time at Ohio State, I did research working with perovskite stabilization for use in solar cells.  I joined the Harris group in Fall 2021 and my work will focus on oxidation reactions over zeolite-encapsulated metal complexes. In my free time, I enjoy playing golf, hiking, and watching sports.

Elyse Kimpiab

I graduated with a B.S. from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa, in December 2017. After that, I worked as a research assistant at the Environmental Nanotechnology research group, where I synthesized and characterized Fenton catalysts from renewable resources. I joined the Harris group in Spring 2023, and my research focuses on the development of catalysts aimed at converting oxidative conversion of light alkanes. Outside university, I like cooking, singing and socializing. 


Britney Mack headshot

Britney Mack

I graduated from the University of South Alabama (USA) with a BS in Chemical Engineering in Spring 2023. At USA, I spent two years studying the intermolecular interactions in the solvation environment of a modified ionic liquid to develop an alternative industrial solvent and catalyst. I spent my senior year as AIChE president promoting undergraduate involvement in research and STEM. I have joined the Harris Lab and UA’s PhD program to expand my current academic and professional background in catalytic and reactions systems hoping to play a larger role in building an environmentally sustainable future. Outside of academics, I love cardio, cooking, a good podcast, and playing sports I’m not good at. 


Headshot of Alex Minne

Alex Minne

I graduated from the University of Alabama in Spring 2020 with a BS in Chemical Engineering. During my undergrad I  completed a 3-term co-op and was involved in AIChE and numerous other organizations on campus. With post-graduation plans falling through due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to return to UA in pursuit of a graduate degree. I joined the Harris group in Spring 2021 and my research focuses on zeolite synthesis and oxidation reactions. Outside of academics I enjoy fitness, skiing, fly fishing and building computers.

Undergraduate Students

Treycen Garton

I am a sophomore pursuing a Chemical Engineering degree. I am a member of the Mu Theta Tau Engineering Fraternity, AIChE, and the Stem Path to MBA program. Outside of academics, I enjoy staying active in various intramural sports and expressing myself through music. I joined the Harris Lab in Fall 2023.


headshot of Aaron Groff

Aaron Groff

I am a freshman pursuing a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering. I am considering minors in mathematics, chemistry, and Spanish. I am a member of the Randall Research Scholars Program, the STEM Path to the MBA, and AIChE. Outside of academics, I enjoy bowling on the University of Alabama's men's club bowling team. Additionally, some of my other extracurricular activities include tennis, golf, and watching lots of football. I joined the Harris Lab in Spring 2024.

Adam Honson

I am a sophomore studying Chemical Engineering and Italian Language.  I am a member of the STEM path to MBA program, and I enjoy being involved with the UA Club Swim Team and the UA Climbing Club.  I joined the Harris Lab in Fall 2023.

Katherine Perkinson

I am a sophomore studying Chemical Engineering with a concentration in Biology and a minor in Spanish. I am a part of the STEM path to MBA program and Alpha Gamma Delta social sorority. In my free time, I love to watch scary movies or play games outside with friends, like spike ball. I joined the Harris Lab in Fall 2023.

Alumni

Graduate Alumni

Undergraduate Alumni