Our People
Meet a few of the WBI scientists, why they chose Green Chemistry and what they enjoy doing outside the lab. |
Lauren, Scientist Specialization: Materials Science Hometown: Buffalo, NY Lauren earned her M.S. in Materials Science from Boston University where she conducted solid oxide fuel cell research under Professor Uday Pal. She started at BU to complete post-baccalaureate coursework in physics and engineering through BU's LEAP program after earning her B.A. in American Studies and Philosophy from Wellesley College. Why Green Chemistry? Lauren became interested in Green Chemistry through her work in green energy. "Even if a type of energy production is sustainable, the materials and manufacturing processes behind them might be very energy intensive or even toxic. Green chemistry allows me to be involved in green materials selection from the ground up." Outside of the laboratory... Outside the lab, Lauren is an avid reader and WBI's resident amateur photographer. She is a Young Friend of the Cambridge Historical Society and a devotee of 19th C. and 20th C. European and American decorative arts. |
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Michelle, Senior Scientist Specialization: Analytical Chemistry Hometown: Lake Forest, Illinois Michelle earned her B.S. in Pharmacology and Toxicology from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and her M.S. and Ph.D. in Integrated and Applied Sciences from Saint Louis University, in Saint Louis, Missouri. Why Green Chemistry? Michelle loves being involved in Green Chemistry because it allows her to be diverse in her work: "it helps me learn new concepts and study current topics that are in the science field." She enjoys the wide range of experience her background gives her, and she uses her strong understanding of pharmacology, toxicology, and microfluidics to inform her approach to Green Chemistry. Michelle says that she is proud to work at the Warner Babcock Institute because, she says, "I've always been respectful of nature and what we do here helps society. I like what the people here stand for." Outside of the laboratory... Michelle is a dedicated hiker, biker, runner, and gardener. She loves traveling and spending time with her husband, Jesse, and their two rambunctious dogs. |
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Olga, Senior Scientist Specialization: Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Polymeric materials Hometown: Safonovo, Russia Olga received her B.S. in Organic Chemistry with honors at Moscow State University in Moscow, Russia. While studying in Moscow, she traveled to the USA during summer breaks to work in different research groups at Dartmouth College & Florida State University. Ultimately, Olga conducted research for an undergraduate thesis at Dartmouth College. Olga earned both her M.S. and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Brandeis University, where she worked on total synthesis of natural products under the supervision of Professor Barry B. Snider. Why Green Chemistry? Olga became interested in Green Chemistry because “it really makes a difference for the entire world.” At Warner Babcock, we look at problems from a different perspective with the attitude of discovering a better way. “Sometimes it is better to find a way to prevent problems than to solve them.” Olga loves to work on development of environmentally benign materials and processes. She says, “I’m very happy that I can contribute into making our planet greener.” Outside of the laboratory... Olga is an avid skier and a dedicated hiker. She loves to read, travel, and meet new people from different countries. |
