What projects did you take part in during your internship?

My group worked on chemical upcycling of polymers and catalysis in the Chemical Sciences & Engineering at Argonne National Lab. I worked on the chemical upcycling of plastics, synthesizing polypropylene-based diol macromonomers from post-consumer waste polypropylene. These macromonomers were then used to synthesize other plastic materials.

How did you get the internship?

I heard about the DOE SULI program through the Chemistry Department REU/Internships Information Night my sophomore year; however, I applied my junior year. I began my application in late October, and I submitted in early January. For the application, you need to write four short essays, fill out your academic/work information and skills, and have two letters of recommendation. So, I recommend starting the application process early as it is a bit lengthy.