EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
2012-Present University of Akron, Akron, OH
Department of Polymer Science Ph.D. Student
Advisor: Dr. Nita Sahai
2007-2012 Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI
Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
GPA: 3.84
2003-2007 Swan Valley High School, Saginaw, MI
High school Diploma
Class Co-Valedictorian GPA: 4.0
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI (2010-2011) Independent Study: Bioplastic Synthesis from Waste Proteins and Carbohydrates Advisors: Dr. David Karpovich and Dr. Tami Sivy
Synthesized and analyzed the products of a novel bioplastic formula utilizing the waste by-products of ethanol and biodiesel production. These bioplastics were created using a novel formulation developed at SVSU. Using Raman spectroscopy, furthered the understanding of the chemistry behind the bioplastic formation.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, MI (March 2010- August 2012) College Co-Op Supervisor: Mark Fisher
Played an active role in front-end research to develop novel silicones for use across a broad range of applications.
Set up and synthesized a variety of organo-functional silicones independently within the laboratory.
Gained proficiency in the use of a vast array of analytical instruments, including the GC/GC-MS, Silcon 29 and Carbon 13 NMR, UV-Vis spectrometer, rheometer, goiniometer (measure contact angles), and various particle sizing instruments.
Maintained a safe and clean work environment to a “5-S” standard.
AWARDS/ ACTIVITIES
2007-2012 Recipient of the SVSU Presidential Scholarship (full tuition)
2007-2012 Member of the Society of Collegiate Scholars of SVSU
2007-2012 Consistent recipient of the Dean’s (3.8-3.99) or President’s (4.0) List for academic achievement
2007-2012 Volunteer for the Swan Valley Youth Football League
2009- 2012 Member of the SVSU Chemistry Club
2010-Present Member of the American Chemical Society
2011 Honorable Mention in the Braun Award writing competition for the essay The Plastic Plague
2012 Outstanding Chemistry Department Graduate Award
2013 Austen BioInnovation Institute in Akron BioDesign Fellowship Recipient
PUBLICATIONS/ PRESENTATIONS
Raman Spectroscopy Analysis of Cellulose and Soy Protein: Bioplatic Building Blocks, Steven Mankoci, Fredy Pratama, Tami L. Sivy Ph.D., and David S. Karpovich Ph.D., Spring 2011 SVSU Science and Engineering Symposium, Fall 2012 ACS Midland Chapter Meeting
Raman and thermal analyses of novel bioplastics, Steven Mankoci, Tami L. Sivy Ph.D., and David S. Karpovich Ph.D., Spring 2011 American Chemical Society National Meeting, Undergraduate Poster Session
Co-author of two internal technical reports within the Dow Corning TIS proprietary report system