Rupa Kasturi Kasturi
San Juan
Summary
Dynamic researcher with a proven track record at the Molecular Sciences Research Centre, specializing in electrocatalyst development and MXene synthesis. Demonstrated expertise in enhancing energy solutions through innovative practices and effective collaboration. Skilled in analytical techniques and committed to sustainable practices, driving impactful results in advanced materials research.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Associate Researcher
Molecular Sciences Research Centre
Puerto Rico
01.2025 - Current
- Collaborating on innovative projects aimed at developing sustainable energy solutions
- Engaging in conversion of sargassum (Red Alge) waste to natural polymer
- Training and synthesis of natural carbon nanofibers (CNF), Electrospinning method
IRC Government Postdoctoral Researcher
Chemistry Department
Maynooth, Ireland
09.2022 - 09.2024
- Research Focus: Engineering next-generation fuel cells using MXenes-based electrocatalysts to enhance efficiency, stability, and cost-effectiveness.
- MXene Synthesis: Expertise in synthesizing and characterizing double transition metal MXenes.
- Electrocatalyst Development: Skilled in creating cost-effective, non-noble metal electrocatalysts.
- Carbon Nanofibers: Proficient in synthesizing N-rich carbon nanofibers from lignin.
- Electrochemical Testing: Experienced in assessing electrocatalytic activity and stability.
- Sustainable Practices: Knowledgeable in eco-friendly synthesis methods.
- Collaboration: Effective in working with academic and industry partners.
Research Intern -Electrospinning Technique
UPR, MSRC
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico
02.2023 - 03.2023
- Conducted electrospinning experiments (NASA-funded project) to fabricate nanofibers from biodegradable polymers for drug delivery applications, achieving a 30% increase in scaffold porosity for enhanced drug loading, and promoting rapid dissolution in the human body.
- Characterized electrospun fibers using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to analyze their structural properties and optimize material formulations.
- Contributed to the research publication.
Research Collaborator - MXenes Training
Mechanical Engineering, LMSL, IUPUI
Indianapolis, USA
06.2022 - 08.2022
- MXene Synthesis: Proficient in best practices for synthesizing MXenes, including troubleshooting common synthesis challenges.
- MAX Powder Preparation: Experienced in the synthesis and characterization of MAX phases, focusing on their unique properties and applications in advanced materials.
- MXene Characterization: Skilled in utilizing techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, electron microscopy, UV-vis, and XPS to characterize MXenes for quality assessment, flake size determination, and delamination.
- MXene Electrochemistry: Knowledgeable in electrochemical characterization techniques for MXene electrodes, including preparation, analysis, and understanding of charge storage mechanisms.
- MXenes in Energy Storage and Catalysis: Familiar with the application of MXenes in energy storage systems and catalytic reactions for sustainable energy solutions.
Education
MPhil - Physics
Bharathiar University
Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India02-2015
Ph.D. - Physics
Bharathiar University
Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India04-2014
Master of Science - Physics
Bharathiar University
Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India04-2011
Skills
- Electrocatalyst development
- MXene synthesis
- Electrochemical testing
- Carbon nanofiber synthesis
- Sustainable practices
- Analytical techniques
- Research collaboration
- Effective communication
Affiliations
- 2022: Government of Ireland Postdoctoral Fellowship, Maynooth University, Ireland.
- 2020: Selected for the GRABS Best Young Researcher Award by the Award Committee for exceptional accomplishments.
- 2008-2011: First Prize of Merit for academic proficiency in Physics, Alagappa Government Arts College, Karaikudi.
Accomplishments
Award - Government of Ireland Postdoctoral Fellowship (2022)
Funding Resource: Irish Research Council (IRC)
Total Funding: €92,184
Annual Direct Research Expenses: €5,000
Languages
Tamil
First Language
English
Proficient (C2)
C2
Spanish
Beginner
A1
Conferences
Total Presentations: 14
Invited Talks: 3; Oral Presentations: 1; Poster Presentations: 10; Participant: 7
References
Prof. Carmel Breslin
Assistant Professor
Maynooth University
carmel.Breslin@mu.ie
Prof. K. Srinivasan
Head of the Department
Bharathiar University
nivas_5@yahoo.com
Prof. Torsten Stelzer
Associate Professor
UPR,
MSRC
torsten.stelzer@upr.edu
Timeline
Associate Researcher
Molecular Sciences Research Centre
01.2025 - Current
Research Intern -Electrospinning Technique
UPR, MSRC
02.2023 - 03.2023
IRC Government Postdoctoral Researcher
Chemistry Department
09.2022 - 09.2024
Research Collaborator - MXenes Training
Mechanical Engineering, LMSL, IUPUI
06.2022 - 08.2022
MPhil - Physics
Bharathiar University
Ph.D. - Physics
Bharathiar University
Master of Science - Physics
Bharathiar University
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