Meet Our Past Interns - 2017
- Alternative Energy
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Aifuwa, Eseiwi ’19
Chemical and Biological Engineering
PROJECTPromoting Algae Growith with Photoreactors
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONDepartment of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University
MENTOR(S)José Avalos, Assistant Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering and the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment
SEE PRESENTATIONI worked on speeding up the process of algae growth in order to promote — and make feasible — further studies in the possible use of algae to produce biofuels. I built a set of photoreactors in order to determine the wavelengths of light that best promote algae photosynthesis. I took daily optical densities in order to track algae growth in the reactors. We found that red light is more effective than green light, but we had issues with controlling contamination. We also worked on thermoelastic substances to possibly reflect the light inside of the reactors. We also considered different agar formulas and discovered that washed — a repeated process of cleaning that takes roughly a week — bacto agar is the most effective type of agar for algae to grow in. Now that we have some results, I am continuing work in the the lab in order to understand why these experiments occurred the way they did.
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Cohen, Robert ’19
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
PROJECTLithium Vapor Box Diverter
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONPrinceton Plasma Physics Laboratory
MENTOR(S)Robert Goldston, Professor of Astrophysical Sciences
SEE PRESENTATIONI performed research on nuclear-fusion technologies at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Specifically, I worked one-on-one with a fifth-year graduate student whose research focused on extracting the energy produced during fusion reactions. The main challenge we addressed is that approximately one-third of the escaping energy is tightly confined to strong electromagnetic field lines, which results in a very powerful, narrow energy beam that poses a serious threat to the structural integrity and lifetime of the reaction vessel. Each day on the job was different than the last. I spent a lot of time performing powertransfer calculations, joint-integrity tests, and logging thermocouple data. I even learned how to weld and constructed features of the preliminary test-stand experiment! The experiences I gained reinforced my desire to pursue a career in the field of sustainable energy.
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Dasgupta, Anushka ’19
Chemical and Biological Engineering
PROJECTCharacterization of a New Electrolyte for Mg-ion Batteries
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONDepartment of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University
MENTOR(S)Craig Arnold, Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
SEE PRESENTATIONRechargeable magnesium-ion (Mg-ion) batteries are a promising alternative to lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, especially because they lack the dendrite formation that has led to safety issues in Li-ion technology. Key to the performance of a Mg-ion battery is its electrolyte, which enables the redox processes within the battery to occur smoothly and reversibly. For my internship, I characterized a nonaqueous alkoxide electrolyte previously developed in the Arnold battery lab. I learned to use equipment in the lab to fabricate, cycle and perform electrochemical tests on coin cells. I also had the opportunity to use the state-of-the-art facilities in the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment at Princeton to analyze samples. Working independently at all stages – from fabrication to analysis – was a challenging and rewarding experience that gave me valuable insight into the research process.
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Gaitan, Gabriel ’19
Physics
PROJECTClean Small Fusion Reactors
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONPrinceton Plasma Physics Laboratory
MENTOR(S)Samuel Cohen, Director of the Program in Plasma Science and Technology, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory
SEE PRESENTATIONI worked on Samuel Cohen’s team to develop a highly efficient push-pull, class-E electrical amplifier to power an antenna. The antenna is used to heat plasma in the Princeton Field Reversed Configuration (PFRC) plasma reactor. Due to its small size and power range of 1 to 10 megawatts, a working PFRC reactor would be suitable as a clean power-producing reactor for terrestrial electricity generation and in NASA space missions, such as a human mission to Mars or in deflecting asteroids. The reactor uses aneutronic fusion, which greatly reduces neutron damage to the walls and reduces radioactivity by more than a factor of 1,000 compared to other nuclear-power sources. During this project, I learned how to simulate the amplifier, include effects of non-ideal components, use the lab equipment to build the circuit and test it, and, most importantly, model and find solutions to problems not present in the initial simulations. I learned a lot about using both simulations and experiments to both guide my project and to improve my models and understanding of theoretical and practical aspects. I also benefited from the guidance of people inside and outside of our group and I got a great taste of the life of a graduate student.
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Grah, Olivia ’19
Economics
PROJECTClean Energy Intern
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONEnvironmental Defense Fund, New York City
MENTOR(S)Rory Christian, Director of New York Clean Energy, Environmental Defense Fund
I primarily worked on three projects for the clean-energy team at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) in New York City during the summer. I focused on energy issues affecting lowto- moderate income residents in New York City. I also examined the New York Public Service Commission’s initiative to improve the accuracy with which it values solar power injected into the electric grid. Finally, I studied the feasibility and potential scope of electric-vehicle use in New York City. I conducted internet research and produced a number of research reports and summaries for EDF employees. The summer provided me with insight into the operation of a large environmental nonprofit, with a special emphasis on the interface between nonprofits and partners in private and government sectors. Because of the internship, I have an increased interest in energy issues, and I am interested in exploring the intersection of energy and business.
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Khan, Hassaan ’20
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
PROJECTClean Small Fusion Reactors
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONPrinceton Plasma Physics Laboratory
MENTOR(S)Samuel Cohen, Director of the Program in Plasma Science and Technology, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory
I learned a lot about plasma physics during the summer. The project I intended to do was on the Princeton Field Reversed Configuration (PFRC) and involved using fusion for space propulsion. However, the necessary equipment was not yet installed. Consequently, I worked in another lab utilizing the probes that I would eventually use on the PFRC research project. Unfortunately, the probe was never installed on the PFRC. Still, I learned a great deal about Langmuir probes and their function and data analysis. The primary activities I took part in were oscilloscope use and data analysis, including Fourier-transform analysis. I learned a ton about the oscilloscope and how to analyze the data it records. This internship helped me realize I am more of a practical person who likes to build and design components instead of just analyzing the data they record. On another note, I would recommend only rising juniors and seniors to take on this internship as the physics can be a bit intense.
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Khurram, Hamna ’20
Computer Science
PROJECTSurface Properties of Tungsten for Plasma Interactions
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONPrinceton Plasma Physics Laboratory
MENTOR(S)Bruce Koel, Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering
I worked at the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab (PPPL) and learned about surface science and plasma-materials interactions as related to applications in nuclear fusion. My project was to better understand the surface properties of the rare metal tungsten. Tungsten is a material that could be used to construct the inside parts of a nuclear reactor that needs to withstand interactions with hydrogen plasma. I was trained to use a scanning electron microscope (SEM) – a machine that can provide information about the surfaces of materials – and prepared samples of tungsten with a sample-polishing machine used for microscopy. Through my summer internship, I gained a fuller understanding of what it means to work long-term in a research-lab setting. Based on my experiences, I now have a better idea of what type of career I might want to pursue.
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Mahmood, Hamza ’20
Computer Science
PROJECTFinancial, Electrical and Thermal Modeling of High-Rate Recharging Vehicles
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONLightening Energy, Dover, New Jersey
MENTOR(S)Eric Materniak, Program Manager and Engineer, Lightening Energy
I worked at Lightening Energy, a startup company that seeks to expand its high-rate recharging solutions to the commercial market. I had the opportunity to perform market research, develop business plans and presentations, and implement the beginning stages of a realworld algorithm. Much of the summer was dedicated to optimizing business models for industrial and aerospace applications. Thus, I learned about new financial principles and assisted with financial modeling of prospective business paths. In this manner, I was able to hone my research and analytical skills. Additionally, I was continuously exposed to businessmeeting protocols as interns met and discussed ideas with the CEO and product engineer manager. It was thrilling to gain insight into how a small startup functions. This internship has influenced me to take business classes, learn more about algorithms, and actively participate in the very important field of sustainability. Ultimately, I am happy the internship delivered more than what I expected.
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Pi, Selina ’19
Operations Research and Financial Engineering
PROJECTFinancial, Electrical and Thermal Modeling of High-Rate Recharging Vehicles
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONLightening Energy, Dover, New Jersey
MENTOR(S)Eric Materniak, Program Manager and Engineer, Lightening Energy
SEE PRESENTATIONAt Lightening Energy, a company focused on energy storage and recharging technology, I worked to develop cost-revenue models for different business scenarios involving high-rate recharging vehicles. My role also included producing and reviewing financial documents and presentations, which were sent to investors to market the company’s proprietary technology. My work allowed me to apply the economic theory I learned in class to the analysis of a real-world market and business. I needed to consider not only material costs and margins but also operating costs, local and national regulations, competition, and industry trends to obtain a well-founded estimate for potential demand and an idea of the risk involved. Through my work and Lightening Energy’s mentorship, I immersed myself in startup culture, learning about business opportunities in alternative energy and the amount of collaborative effort needed to bring a new business idea into action. The internship confirmed my interest in financial modeling, business valuation and market research in an environmentally sustainable and economically viable field. I’ve been inspired to further my academic studies in energy as a valuable resource and to seek a career leading the production of tangible, efficient technology.
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Sidhu, Harjot ’19
Electrical Engineering
PROJECTFinancial, Electrical, and Thermal Modeling for High-Rate Recharging Vehicles
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONLightening Energy, Dover, New Jersey
MENTOR(S)Eric Materniak, Program Manager and Engineer, Lightening Energy
SEE PRESENTATIONThe primary goal of my project was to effectively use a new battery technology for industrial applications. I worked on researching a battery-management system for six battery cells and studying the appropriate component costs. I then consolidated this information into a “pitchdeck” to present to potential investors. I also researched an automation and communications design for an industrial application, creating a preliminary design for a network that connected the industrial vehicles. For my last project, I built a batterymanagement circuit for two battery cells. Through this amazing experience, I furthered my knowledge of electrical-engineering principles – specifically the workings of a battery – and developed skills in finance as I worked on financial models and analyses. This internship experience influenced my future academic study by creating an interest in the renewableenergy sector, an area that I plan on studying more. Working at Lightening Energy was an enriching experience that has allowed me to not only further my own skills, but also work in the exciting environment of a startup company.
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Sue, Christina ’19
Chemical and Biological Engineering
PROJECTProtecting China’s Cities and Nature Through Energy Management and WIldlife Litigation
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONNatural Resources Defense Council, China
MENTOR(S)Alvin Lin, Climate and Energy Policy Director, China Program, Natural Resources Defense Council
I interned at the Natural Resources Defense Council’s (NRDC) China branch in Beijing, where I worked on the climate and energy and on the wildlife-protection teams. This summer afforded me flexibility to bounce between projects, most notably introducing a cap on oil consumption and setting up national sentencing guidelines for wildlife crimes. The climate and energy team played a pivotal role in advising on China’s coal-consumption cap, so being able to calculate emissions, meet with advocates and experts, and predict environmental impacts with recommendations for the oil cap felt especially pertinent. On the wildlife team, I analyzed past wildlife-crime rulings in the American court system to provide a foundational understanding and highlight the necessity of standardization in these types of cases. I also developed presentations that aggregated information on environmental indicators as part of a government project to transform mines into national parks. Beijing is quickly moving towards environmental sensitivity and sustainability in tandem with China’s rapid economic growth. This summer strengthened my determination to pursue environmental work and it piqued my interest in Chinese global diplomacy.
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Wang, Bertha ’18
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
PROJECTFinancial, Electrical and Thermal Modeling of High-Rate Recharging Vehicles
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONLightening Energy, Dover, New Jersey
MENTOR(S)Eric Materniak, Program Manager and Engineer, Lightening Energy
SEE PRESENTATIONI interned at Lightening Energy researching mechanical and structural components for electric vehicles and their cost estimations. I got to learn about existing technologies for electric motors and transmissions, and analyzed their torque and power capabilities. This research was used for an electric-vehicle design and was incorporated into a report and pitchdeck that the company can present to investors. Through this project, I also learned about financial modeling and market considerations as they impacted vehicle designs. Besides this project, I got to use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for a thermal coolingsystem design, and toured the company’s dry room where they make batteries. This internship allowed me to apply mechanical concepts I learned in class to product design and to gain valuable industry experience. It inspired me to choose a senior design project that involves mechanical design and prototyping, and to pursue a career in mechanical design.
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Ward, Stephanie ’19
Operations Research and Financial Engineering
PROJECTAdvanced Generation and Storage Technologies for Deeply Decarbonized Power
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONEnergy Systems Analysis Group, Princeton University
MENTOR(S)Tom Kreutz, Energy Systems Modeler, Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment
SEE PRESENTATIONThe goal of this project was to explore methods for scheduling and allocating various power sources in the Pennsylvania-Jersey-Maryland power grid. We wanted to add wind power or increase existing wind power while still meeting demand. My daily activities included analyzing, comparing and compiling notes on previously written papers about this topic; transforming equations into workable code and debugging them; searching for and compiling existing data to feed into our models; and creating simulated data. I often read ahead in the papers and models we considered and was able to catch potential difficulties or components we might want to include in the code. I gained an appreciation for the complexities of incorporating higher amounts of renewable energy into the power mix. For renewable energy to be successful, we need to accurately predict how much of it will be available and when, as well as have a plan for scheduling it and accounting for discrepancies between predicted and actual power. This project developed my skills as a researcher, coder and member of a team. I now possess strong background knowledge about electricity scheduling, which could be helpful when I write my senior thesis combining my major in operations research and my certificate in environmental studies.
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Webber, Marissa ’18
Civil and Environmental Engineering
PROJECTLow Net-Carbon-Emission Biomass-based Transportation Scenarios in the U.S.
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONAndlinger Center for Energy and the Environment, Princeton University
MENTOR(S)Eric Larson, Senior Research Engineer, Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment
SEE PRESENTATIONI analyzed the potential of sustainable biofuels to replace conventional petroleum within the light-duty vehicle industry. We first reviewed the existing literature and governmental studies done to determine the carbon and energy balances for different sustainable feedstock in the United States. Then, we conducted a scenario analysis to determine what would be a feasible quantity of sustainable feedstock produced in the continental U.S. in 2050, and, therefore, how much petroleum could be displaced by the biofuel that could be made from this sustainable feedstock. While working on this project, I was able to hone my skills in research and analysis and familiarize myself with the study of biomass within sustainable energy. As a large project with many moving parts, this project required more of a systems approach and increased my ability to think about important details without losing sight of the ‘big picture,’ which will undoubtedly be useful in my future research endeavors.
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Wong, Stephen ’19
Chemical and Biological Engineering
PROJECTActivity of Cobalt Phosphides as Catalysts for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONDepartment of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University
MENTOR(S)Bruce Koel, Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering
SEE PRESENTATION20 2017 Environmental Research Experiences Alternative Energy I examined cobalt phosphide (Co-P) surfaces for use as low-cost catalysts in hydrogen cells. Hydrogen cells represent a promising field of energy storage for use with intermittent renewable energy such as wind and solar power. These fuel cells utilize energy and specialized catalysts to convert water into hydrogen and oxygen. Cobalt phosphides represent a low-cost alternative to the current hydrogen catalyst, platinum. My work focused on fine-tuning the procedure required for the deposition of cobalt-phosphide films. I examined film samples under an X-ray photoelectron spectrometer to determine their surface compositions. I also tested successful films to determine their effectiveness as hydrogen catalysts. Furthermore, I assisted in the design of equipment that will be used in the lab to study the fundamental reactions occurring during hydrogen conversion. During this project, I learned how to properly use and troubleshoot electrodeposition to produce desired films. I also gained experience in surface analysis of both composition and catalytic activity. I learned more about the potential available to those who enter this field of research, and I feel this project gave me further insight into the field of efficient energy storage.
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Zheng, Fred ’19
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
PROJECTClean Small Fusion Reactors
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONPrinceton Plasma Physics Laboratory
MENTOR(S)Samuel Cohen, Director of the Program in Plasma Science and Technology, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory
SEE PRESENTATIONI spent the summer working on computational fluid models of an experimental nuclear-fusion device. This device has a field-reversed configuration as opposed to the normal tokamak configuration found in most nuclear-fusion devices. My primary job was to model the outermost layer of the reactor for potential use as a rocket engine. If done correctly, this will allow a nuclear-fusion device to directly power a spacecraft, which would greatly enhance the capabilities of space exploration. This internship was a fantastic opportunity for me to apply what I had learned in class to real-world applications. I had the chance to work with leading scientists and learn a lot about the laboratory environment, as well as the graduate-student life. Not only did I learn a lot about plasma physics and nuclear fusion, I also got experience working with computer modeling. This experience has opened my mind about pursuing plasma physics and graduate school after I graduate.
- Biodiversity and Conservation
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Barber, Rebecca ’20
Computer Science
PROJECTModel-based Evaluation of Bubble Injection in Air-Sea Gas Exchange Parameterizations
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONProgram in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, Princeton University
MENTOR(S)Jorge Sarmiento, George J. Magee Professor of Geoscience and Geological Engineering and Professor of Geosciences; Seth Bushinsky, Postdoctoral Research Associate, AOS
SEE PRESENTATIONI performed research concerning gas exchange across the ocean’s air-sea boundary. Quantifying gas flux is paramount in measuring gas concentrations in the ocean, and gas concentrations help us calculate net community production. Net community production is a primary control on carbon distribution between the atmosphere and the ocean and, thus, has an impact on global warming. However, new air-sea gas parameterizations indicate the importance of explicitly including bubble injection to calculate gas fluxes. The purpose of my project was to assess the impact of adding a bubble-injection parametrization to the model of air-sea gas exchange. To analyze biogeochemical-model output, I programmed modules in MATLAB and designed illustrative graphs. I had an absolutely incredible experience working in the Program in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (AOS), learning MATLAB, and meeting faculty and students from fields outside of what I usually study. Working in AOS introduced me to data analysis, and it taught me the importance of these skills across several different disciplines.
* This internship is connected to the PEI Climate and Energy Grand Challenges project, “Southern Ocean Observations and Modeling.”
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Carabbia, Luke ’19
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
PROJECTEffects of El Niño Rainfall Patterns on the Population Dynamics of a Tropical Forest Bird
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONPrinceton University and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Barro Colorado Island, Panama
MENTOR(S)Christina Riehl, Assistant Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
SEE PRESENTATIONI worked as a field assistant in the Riehl Lab — in collaboration with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute — on Barro Colorado Island in Panama. I studied the unique breeding pattern of the greater ani, a cooperatively breeding bird, as well as its decision-making abilities regarding adult allotment of food items to nestlings. I aided in monitoring the breeding groups’ activity and taking DNA swabs from laid eggs. In addition, I took blood samples from nestlings, banded them for later identification, and tracked their growth and feeding frequency through regular measurements and video recordings. I gained from this project an in-depth understanding of field biology, including different methods for acquiring data in a natural setting and the benefits of monitoring a biological system long-term. My summer internship inspired me to pursue field research for my senior independent work. I hope to analyze the ontogeny and variation of the bizarre mouthparts of the ani nestlings and experimentally test if they prompt a feeding response from parent birds.
* This internship is connected to the PEI Water and the Environment Grand Challenges project, “Effects of El Niño Rainfall Patterns on the Population Dynamics of a Tropical Forest Bird.”
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Chan, Keo ’18
Geosciences
PROJECTNew Methods in Fish Otolith Geochemistry
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONDepartment of Geosciences, Princeton University
MENTOR(S)Bess Ward, William J. Sinclair Professor of Geosciences and the Princeton Environmental Institute
SEE PRESENTATIONI analyzed the bones found in the ears of fish (otoliths) by looking at the stable isotopes found within them, which is a seldom-studied aspect of otoliths. Most of my daily work involved working on bone samples in the lab and taking them through a multi-step process, from initially dissecting them from frozen fish heads to running the samples on a mass spectrometer. We hope that a greater understanding of otolith geochemistry will help us understand the human impact on ecosystems and develop new metrics to measure this. This project highly influenced my choice of senior thesis and supports future publications in the Ward lab.
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Demian, Nadeem ’19
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
PROJECTImpact of Grazing Regimes on Rangeland Quality and Wildlife and Livestock Use
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONMpala Research Centre, Kenya
MENTOR(S)Daniel Rubenstein, Class of 1877 Professor of Zoology and Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
SEE PRESENTATIONI interned with Professor Daniel Rubenstein conducting research on livestock-grazing and cattle-rearing methods at the Mpala Research Centre in Nanyuki, Kenya, and on surrounding properties. The goal was to better understand the impact of livestock grazing on rangeland in northern Kenya, as well as to understand the financial aspects of different cattle-rearing methods. Using GPS trackers and accelerometers, we analyzed the “wisdom of the herder” and how herds moved on the rangeland. We also conducted interviews with ranch owners to get their opinions of the financial and social aspects of cattle rearing. We hosted the first large gathering of private ranch owners in northern Kenya to foster interest in our search for the most sustainable cattle-rearing method. I gained invaluable skills in many different areas, from communication to technology, and I was able to immerse myself in the world of field research. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Mpala and hope to return for my senior-thesis research.
* This internship is connected to the PEI Development Grand Challenges project, “Water, Savannas and Society.”
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Demmel, Megan ’19
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
PROJECTThe Spatial Ecology of African Savana Herbivores in the Absence of Predation
ORGANIZATION / LOCATIONEdward O. Wilson Biodiversity Laboratory, Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique
MENTOR(S)Corina Tarnita, Assistant Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
SEE PRESENTATIONI helped on a study of predator-prey interactions at Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique. We investigated the “landscape of fear” theory, which suggests that predators can affect the movement of prey even without direct interactions. I helped set up speakers to play predator sounds in different locations throughout the park, and arranged camera traps nearby to record animals’ reactions. I analyzed and sorted many of the resulting videos and identified the species in each one. I also helped set up experiments to determine how herbivore movement might affect vegetation. I gained skills valuable to fieldwork, such as using GPS and animal identification. I left with a better understanding of the range of questions one can explore in ecology, of the questions that have yet to be answered, and of the importance of community engagement in conservation. Having spent so much time in such a unique and exciting ecosystem, I gained a keen sense of the importance of protecting these areas, and I hope to continue pursuing research on the African savanna during my time at Princeton.
* This internship is connected to the PEI Development Grand Challenges project, “Ecosystem Spatial Pattern and Development Opportunities in African Rangelands.”
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Didion, Kathryn ’19
English
