Alumni Spotlights

Degrees Obtained from the School of Engineering:

Doctor of Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering

Current Profession and Employer:

Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Michigan State University

What do you like the most about your profession?

I like the state-of-the-art imaging tools (e.g., confocal laser scanning microscopy, stimulated ramen scattering microscopy, and atomic force microscopy) and creative team members in the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center at Michigan State University most. These resources allow me to extend my research interests, conduct scientific and fundamental research on Biomass Pretreatment, Enzyme Hydrolysis, Advanced Imaging Techniques that ultimately support goal of biomass conversion into biofuels, bioenergy and value-added products.

How did the Mitchell SOE prepare you for your career?

Michell SOE provided relevant courses among different engineering departments, technical support (Mr. Hudson Defoe who helped to install softwares and resolve technical problems), administrative support (Mr. Parker and Ms. Murphy provided access to meeting rooms and facilities), and encouragement (Dean Dr. Barton visited lab and interacted with lab members).

Who, from the SOE, had the most impact on you during your time at the SOE, and how have they impacted you?

Dr. Seong W. Lee, in the Industrial and Systems Engineering Department, had the most impact on me during the past 8 years since he supervised and guided me to complete my Master Thesis and Doctoral Dissertation. He supported me to form research questions, perform tests, write papers and reports, prepare grants, collaborate with research members, start outreach and networking. In addition, my lab members in the Center for Advanced Energy Systems and Environmental Technologies at Morgan, who collaborated and supported me to perform research activities in the areas of energy systems, thermal sciences, combustion, heating and cooling process, and biomass conversion.

What advice would you give the current SOE student?

Please insist on your goals and dreams. I believe these goals (e.g., degree, job) will be achieved if you never give up. Even though it may take longer than what you expect (may be few months or years), but it is relatively short in your whole career life (normally 30-40 years).

Anything else you'd like to add?

I hope SOE will encourage professors to have a seminar on their research projects that more interested students will be involved in their research. If possible, SOE may also provide some travel funds to students who are willing to attend conferences and present their findings.