As we wind up 2024, we have continued to check in with our graduate students about their research. Today two of our polymers and materials chemistry specialists have generously told us about their goals, their journeys, and the things that brought them to U of T. Here’s what they had to say.
Yulia Tobolovskaya
Yulia completed her HBSc degree at the University of Toronto specializing in Biological Chemistry. She then pursued an MSc degree in chemistry at the University of Waterloo. During her graduate studies, she worked in Professor Klinkova's and Kalyaanamoorthy's research labs on bio-electrocatalytic CO2 storage and conversion technologies. Afterwards, she worked as a laboratory technician in an ultra high purity alumina manufacturing company for over a year. Now she has decided to pursue a PhD in polymer and materials chemistry to continue advancing her research skills and knowledge of the field.
Area of Study: Polymer and Materials Chemistry
Campus: St. George
Research Group: The Kumacheva Group
What branch of chemistry do you specialize in, and how did you come to choose it?
My research experience to date encompasses biological, materials, and electrochemistry as I primarily investigated novel bio-electrocatalytic systems that use carbonic anhydrase enzymes together with Ag and Au nanoparticles for the electrochemical formation of syngas from CO2 stored in bicarbonate-based mediums. Through this work, I realized my passion for materials science and now I am also looking forward to learning about polymer chemistry. Specifically, I intend to explore the medical applications of biocompatible nanoparticles and polymers in biological systems to contribute to the development of therapies, drug delivery systems and diagnostic tools for life-altering diseases.
What are you looking forward to most as you began your graduate studies here at U of T?
I am looking forward to diving deeper into polymer chemistry, working alongside talented researchers and building lasting connections.
Were there any surprises when you began?
It's still early days so no surprises yet! I am just taking my time to settle into graduate school and make the most out of this incredible opportunity.
Kristen Perry
Kristen grew up nearby in Pickering, but completed her BSc at Western University in London, Ontario in Integrated Science with a specialization in Chemistry. During her undergraduate thesis, she worked in Professor Drover’s research lab where she worked on synthesizing organometallic complexes for the activation of carbon dioxide.
Area of Study: Polymer and Materials Chemistry
Campus: St. George
Research Group: Seferos Research Group
What branch of chemistry do you specialize in, and how did you come to choose it?
I specialize in polymer and materials chemistry and am now working in the Seferos group. This was quite a shift from my previous work in inorganics. While I loved working in that area, I’ve always been drawn to polymer chemistry. It includes the aspects of synthetic work that I love while putting an emphasis on the applicability of the research.
What did you look forward to most as you began your graduate studies here at U of T?
I’ve been looking forward to all the great facilities that UofT offers, especially the NMR room! Being close to where I grew up is another aspect that drew me to the school, since I’m much closer to my friends and family now.
What would you tell incoming students about the U of T Chemistry Community?
I would tell incoming students to not shy away from getting involved right away with extracurriculars. I’m part of the WICTO executive team as the social media relations coordinator and being a part of this club has definitely helped with my transition to the school because of the welcoming community of this team. I was surprised by how active the chemistry clubs are at UofT, and new students should definitely come out to the great events being hosted to get more integrated with the chemistry community!