September has arrived, bringing with it a fresh wave of energy as the Department of Chemistry opens its doors to a new cohort of graduate students. In our classrooms, laboratories and research facilities, the excitement is palpable. Among those joining us this fall is Grace Cook. Chemistry Stories caught up with her as she settled in on campus.
Grace Cook
My name is Grace Cook and I'm an incoming grad student interested in using electrochemical methods for the development of sustainable technology. Specifically, I think that designing chemical materials for batteries to power renewable energy is super cool—but who knows what research path I'll end up going down over the course of my PhD!
I am coming from Ann Arbor, Michigan, where I studied redox flow batteries and electrochemical PVC recycling routes with the McNeil Group at the University of Michigan. I am excited to join the welcoming research community at UofT chemistry, make long-lasting friendships among our graduate class, and develop my research skills with the help of our lovely professors and extensive facilities.
Area of Study: 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 am a materials chemist who recently joined the Seferos Group; I admire this group for their work towards sustainable materials, particularly batteries materials.
I achieved double degrees in Chemistry and Environment & Sustainability during my undergraduate studies, which led me down my path of using electrochemistry to help society become more sustainable, particularly by increasing reliable access to renewable energy via batteries.
What are you looking forward to most as you begin your graduate studies here at U of T?
As I begin my graduate studies at U of T, I am most looking forward to forming bonds with my lab mates, not only for collaborative research but also lifelong friendship. I am also very excited to learn how to set up a flow cell and put together my first functioning battery!
What makes materials chemistry most extraordinary or exciting?
I've always enjoyed getting my hands into the wet lab, dealing with tangible chemistry, which is I suppose what led me towards the materials branch.
I find electrochemistry kind of extraordinary because it provides us chemical pathways that might now require as many harmful chemicals for synthesis. It really opens the door for more sustainable chemistry!
What is your favorite depiction of scientists or chemistry in a movie, book, or TV show?
I was an Adventure Time kid growing up and thought Princess Bubblegum was badass... she's certainly dedicated to the scientific process!