Undergraduate Research: BlaneyLab, UMBC & UC-Irvine

Kaylyn Stewart,‘24, chemistry

Blaney Lab, UMBC

When did you start your research on campus? Fall 2021

What is the focus of your research? I work on improving the efficiency of recovering nutrients and contaminants from wastewater systems via Donnan Dialysis in Dr. Lee Blaney’s lab. 

What advice do you have for students who are interested in getting involved in research on campus? It is definitely intimidating, joining a research lab where you basically know nothing. But you’re not expected to know everything! You learn as you go, from other members of the lab, the PI, and from doing a little bit of reading on your own. It also helps if the lab is doing research you are actually interested in; doesn’t have to be a lifetime passion, but an interest. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the PI expressing your interest!

Summer 2022: University of California-Irvine Department of Chemistry

What is the focus of your research/internship?

Studying the microenvironment of electrode surfaces under ionomer coatings

What advice do you have for students who are interested in getting involved in research or an internship?

It's a good idea to start looking earlier rather than later for internships/REU programs. A lot of the applications are due around winter break. Also, even if you're not sure if research is for you, apply!!! That's the best way to find out. It's truly an amazing and rewarding experience, especially if you apply to a research program at another university. They typically pay for your housing, food, flight, and you get paid a stipend! Plus, you get to experience a new part of the country and meet some new people along the way.

Are you a member of any clubs/campus organizations?

American Chemical Society Student Chapter (President)

What are your goals after graduation?

I plan on attending graduate school to pursue my Ph.D.

Learn more about Kaylyn Stewart: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylyn-stewart-a163121b3/

Twitter: @krstewart02 

---

Did you participate in a summer research opportunity or a summer internship? Tell us more about it