Kristin Martin is pursuing a doctorate in chemistry as a graduate researcher in the lab of Prof. Joaquín Rodríguez-López. She received a B.S. in chemistry from Albany State University, a Historically Black College/University in southwest Georgia. Martin was selected a 2024 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow.
What does this NSF Fellowship mean to you?
Truly, getting the NSF-GRFP fellowship was the last thing I would have expected in 2024. I am so incredibly grateful and blessed to have been awarded such an opportunity and overall, I am so thankful that I have funding throughout the remainder of my graduate education.
Tell us about the interdisciplinary research you are involved in at Illinois.
I currently work on the development and surface modification of carbon-based electrodes for inorganic and biological applications. My projects focus on bettering existing systems. With regard for the inorganic side of my work, I have been working on creating a platform for large scale carbon dioxide capture to mitigate the oversaturation of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere. Biologically, I contribute to the development of a biosensor that will have the ability to detect proteins that are overexpressed when patients have particular types of cancer.
What did you look for in a research group?
I chose to work in the Joaquín Rodríguez-López Lab because there is a high priority on fostering great science, but also developing meaningful relationships. I mentioned to my lab mates not too long ago that as much as we are coworkers and peers, we are also family. I genuinely feel so grateful to call myself a JRL lab member.
How did you discover your passion for chemistry?
I was actually quite scared of Chemistry before I took the course in high school, but after taking it my sophomore year with my teacher, Mr. Freeman, everything changed.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in the second smallest county in the state of Georgia, Rockdale, and graduated from Heritage High School and from the Rockdale Career Academy where I took Culinary Arts courses to become a certified Culinarian. My parents are both from a small town in Louisiana, and if you know anything about Louisiana, you know that food matters, so I really enjoy cooking and baking because of them and now I can't help but also understand the chemistry behind food as well.
What organizations are you involved in at UIUC?
- Gender Equity in Chemical Sciences Committee (GEICS) member and also served as Treasurer and hosted a panel on "How to Navigate Diverse Identities in Graduate School."
- National Organization of Black Chemist and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE) Executive Board Member: Serve as Co-Communications Officer
- Encouraging Tomorrow's Chemist (ETC): Participate in demonstrations with local middle school students
- Electrochemical Society (ECS): General Member
Why are these organizations important to you and what do you enjoy about them?
For as long as I remember, I have both seen my mom and dad volunteering, so it is something that comes second hand to me. If I am capable of giving back and have been given the opportunity to do so, I always will. Additionally, finding people, both inside and outside of the department, who care about similar things makes navigating graduate school much easier.
Why did you choose UIUC?
Because the analytical area stood out to me with respect to what I was interested in researching. I also knew other Black students here before applying and that was really important to me.
What are your aspirations after your PhD?
I would like to pursue government/industry-based jobs where I could affect regulations and improve quality of life, both through active research and through legislation. With this being said, I also really enjoy teaching and want to become an adjunct faculty member at a primarily undergraduate institution at some point.
Highlight of graduate school so far?
The people who have helped to encourage me, those who have mentored me, and the insightful conversations, both scientific and not, that I've had with so many people over the past few years.
Favorite way to take a break?
My favorite way to take a break is to take trips to Chicago or Indianapolis on a random weekend.
Any hobbies or activities?
I love hiking/trails, but that normally only happens during the summertime. During the semester, I watch a lot of Bob's Burgers and build Lego sets. I am currently working on the Vespa.