Catalyzing Chemistry is a recurring Chemistry Stories feature where we introduce our readers to graduate students and their work within the laboratories on the St. George, Scarborough and Mississauga campuses. We explore their educational journeys, the steps that brought them to their particular chemistry subdiscipline, surprises and discoveries along the way.
Bio: My name is Ghazal (you can also call me G), and I’m an inorganic and organometallic chemist by training, currently conducting research in the Fekl group at the University of Toronto. My current work focuses on the organometallic synthesis of diamondoid structures with potential applications in quantum information science, particularly as molecular precursors for qubits.
Campus: Mississauga
Area of Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry
Research Lab: The Fekl Group
How did you come to join the Fekl Research Group at UTM?
My interest in inorganic chemistry was sparked during my undergraduate thesis at York University, where I worked under the supervision of Prof. Morin on the synthesis of TiO₂ nanomaterials for photooxidation applications, an experience that laid the foundation for my passion for molecular design and functional materials.
In addition to my academic research, I have industrial experience in the pharmaceutical sector, membrane synthesis, and surfactant chemistry. This blend of academic and applied work continues to shape my interdisciplinary approach to chemistry, with a focus on innovation at the interface of fundamental science and real-world application.
What sparked your initial interest in studying chemistry?
I remember the exact moment I decided chemistry was for me, sitting in grade 11 AP chemistry and learning about the different colors of transition metal complexes based on their oxidation states, and I am so glad that I stuck to my gut feeling because it has been an amazing journey since. I can't wait to experience whatever UofT has in store for me as I navigate my doctoral research! (A shout out to Mrs. Grichanik from Thornlea Secondary School for putting me on this path.)
Outside of the lab, I like to box and watch sitcoms from the 90's and early 2000's. I enjoy self-teaching, and so far, I have taught myself to drive stick, do an oil-change, and speak Spanish. New skills on the way (but research comes first).