High School and Undergraduate Students in the Nikolla Lab
A fun-filled summer research adventure with undergraduate students – Jaatani and Klaertje as they worked with Samiha and Kunal in understanding more about synthesis in the Nikolla lab. Jaatani synthesized metallic nanoparticles using the colloidal synthesis approach and evaluated the effect of various parameters like time, temperature, and additives on the size, composition, and yield of nanoparticles. Klaertje employed the reverse microemulsion technique to prepare mixed-metal oxides and addressed the importance of an optimal basicity and time for controlled catalyst morphology. They also presented their work through oral and poster presentations as a part of the research exchange program. We wish them all the very best for their future endeavors!
The Nikolla Lab had an exciting day with high school students as we showed them around our lab and highlighted some interesting processes carried out in the lab and equipments utilized. Kunal, Michael, and Don assisted Izzy (undergraduate student) throughout the synthesis of mixed metal oxides and in her analysis of X-Ray Diffraction patterns for her synthesized catalysts. Jessica (high school student) gained insight into activities carried out in a catalysis lab while assisting Samiha in synthesis and reactor setup. In the process, she learnt some basic topics in catalysis, surface science, and chemistry.
Research with K-12 students in the Nikolla Lab
The Nikolla research group engages local high school students from the Metro Detroit Area with “hands-on” research in the lab throughout the year to inspire them to pursue careers in STEM.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, our mentoring continued through virtual platforms (e.g., Zoom meetings).
The Nikolla group engages middle school students from the Detroit Area in STEM
The Nikolla research group, as part of WSU’s STEM day, hosted “Changing the Energy Landscape Through Catalyst Design” lab demonstrations at the WSU College of Engineering on March 10, 2020. The event involved approximately 60 middle school students from the Detroit area. Through experimental demonstrations and hands-on activities, the student participants became familiar with electrochemical energy conversion systems, photocatalysis, and acid-base chemistry. In these experiments, the students (1) measured solution pH through the use of a litmus paper, (2) powered a robot with a copper/magnesium wet cell battery made in-house, and (3) conducted photocatalytic degradation of a dye.
The Nikolla group gives an “Ask the Expert” seminar at the Michigan Science Center
The Nikolla group gave an “Ask the Expert” seminar at the Michigan Science Center. The event was attended by elementary and middle school kids and their parents from the Metro Detroit area. In addition to the presentation on the energy system and the environment, the event also involved “hands-on” experiments with the kids, where they constructed cars that operated on batteries and solar panels. (Click here for more information.)