Group Members
Our group members' unique backgrounds and interests allow us tackle tough polymers challenges from multiple angles. Learn all about them below!
Email a copy of your resume to Professor Bates at: jeff.bates@utah.edu
Professor Jeff Bates
I received my PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, where the focus of my degree was in the development of hydrogel-based sensors. Since completing my degree, I have worked on many projects, such as exploring the shelf life of biomedical polymer materials, cell phone screen protection, biodegradable materials, adhesives, surface treatments for ski-wax alternative materials, single-use consumer products, and hydrogels in drug delivery device and sensor applications.
Personally interested in music, baking, and gardening
LinkedIn
Ashwin Velraj
Graduate Student
Ph.D. Materials Science & Engineering - Pursuing
Working on the development of fabrication methods for creating implantable hydrogels
Personally interested in kayaking, hiking, spontaneous travel, learning languages, entrepreneurship.
LinkedIn
Nicole Mortenson
Graduate Student
B.S. - M.S. Materials Science & Engineering - Pursuing
Working on the synthesis of drug delivering contact lenses to increase patient adherence in glaucoma therapy.
I love plants, video games, horror movies, anime, and promoting sustainability
LinkedIn
Andrew Falkowski
Undergraduate Student
B.S. - M.S. Materials Science & Engineering - Pursuing
Currently developing an anti-microbial liquid polymer screen protector for touchscreen applications.
Personally interested in documentary-style photograhy, hiking, and powerlifting.
LinkedIn
Cassidy J. Holdeman
Undergraduate Student
B.S. - M.S. Materials Science & Engineering - Pursuing
Currently developing a non-clinical method of diagnosing cystic fibrosis utilizing a chloride ion sensor and a polarity-sensitive dye within a hydrogel matrix
Personally interested in playing guitar, tennis, and drawing
LinkedIn
Sydney Sullivan
Undergraduate Student
B.S. - M.S. Materials Science & Engineering - Pursuing
Currently developing a non-clinical method of diagnosing cystic fibrosis utilizing a chloride ion sensor and a polarity-sensitive dye within a hydrogel matrix
Personally interested in traveling, snowboarding, scuba diving, and backpacking
LinkedIn
Thandiwe Msiska
Undergraduate Student
B.S. Mechanical Engineering - Pursuing
Working on the development of a biodegradable menstrual pad with SHERO.
Personally interested in Hiking, rollerskating, snowboarding, reading, and drawing.
LinkedIn
Kaylon Draney
Undergraduate Student
B.S. Materials Science & Engineering - Pursuing
Working on the development of biodegradable superabsorbent polymers.
Personally interested in rock climbing, hiking, traveling, and all things food.
LinkedIn
Millie Heiner
Undergraduate Student
B.S. Materials Science & Engineering - Pursuing
Research interests include sustainability, sustainable product development, biodegradable pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA), plastic accumulation
Personally interested in rock climbing, hiking, social media marketing, skiing, camping, national parks, traveling.
LinkedIn