Bio: Hi, I am Jitian Chen (she/her), a fourth-year undergraduate student specializing in Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics. As I approach the completion of my degree, I’m very honored to have been awarded the Chemical Institute of Canada Toronto Section Silver Medal. My current research in Prof. Segal’s group focuses on using chemical, physical, mathematical, and programming knowledge to explore quantum system dynamics.
Program: 4th Year Undergraduate
Campus: St. George
Area of Interest: Theoretical and Computational Chemistry
Chemistry Stories asked:
You are doing a CHM499Y Research project with Dvira Segal, isn’t that right? What are you studying, and how did that come together?
I have explored some other areas of chemistry through research before entering Prof. Segal’s group. Prof. Segal’s research focuses on understanding physical and chemical processes at the microscopic level. My current project studies decoherence dynamics in open quantum systems, which aligns with my interest in using theoretical and computational approaches to explore fundamental questions in chemistry. It also allows me to apply knowledge and concepts from chemistry, math, and computer science while developing new skills in these fields.
How did you first become interested in studying chemistry?
I first became interested in chemistry in high school when I did a titration experiment. It was fascinating to see how a single drop of solution could cause such a dramatic color change. That moment made me realize how tiny molecules could drive big transformations. Later, working in different research labs, I saw chemistry’s impact in many areas—from using quantum principles to predict reaction mechanisms to analyzing spectra to identify unknown compounds. To me, chemistry is like solving a puzzle, and that challenge keeps me excited.
Can you remember a time when a fact about chemistry blew your mind?
One of the most surprising facts I learned was that diamond and graphite are both made of the same element, carbon, yet they have completely different properties. Diamond is incredibly hard, while graphite is soft and slippery—all because of different bonding modes and atomic arrangements. This phenomenon, called allotropy, made me appreciate how structure controls function in chemistry. Later, learning about quantum mechanics and delocalized electrons in benzene deepened my understanding of chemical bonding. It amazed me how small changes at the microscopically atomic level could lead to such big differences in macroscopical material properties.
Have you ever presented at a research conference or participated in a Chemistry Department poster session?
Yes, I presented at the Southern Ontario Undergraduate Student Chemistry Conference and Undergraduate Summer Research Poster Session at U of T. My topics were based on my summer research projects. One focused on the reactivity of phosphino-phosphenium cations with unsaturated systems, and the other involved developing a machine learning algorithm. These experiences helped me improve my communication skills and gain valuable feedback on my work.
What advice would you give new U of T undergraduates considering a chemistry specialty?
Stay curious and explore different subfields. Chemistry is a broad field with many branches, and early exposure to areas like organic, inorganic, physical, and computational chemistry can help you find what really excites you. For example, I’ve conducted research in a subfield completely different from what I plan to pursue in the future!
Take advantage of research opportunities—U of T has amazing faculty and labs where you can apply what you’ve learned. And don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance. You’ll learn the most when you stay engaged and open to new ideas.
To me, chemistry is like solving a puzzle, and that challenge keeps me excited. --Jitian Chen
Related Links: Jitian Chen is among this year's Undergraduate Excellence Awards recipients.