Sophie Taylor

• SOAR Position: Member; Alumni
• Major: Chemistry
• Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. Scott Handy

Current Focus: Synthetic Organic Electrochemistry in Deep Eutectic Solvents

Project Description

We combine the analytical method of electrochemistry with physical and organic chemistry to create sustainable methods of organic synthesis. We are the first lab to combine Deep Eutectic Solvents - recyclable ionic liquids at room temperature - and the process of organic electrosynthesis to produce a highly sustainable and recyclable allylation reaction, which could be applied to both the pharmacological and materials industries in the future.

Why does this topic interest you?

I really love sustainability and organic chemistry, and this project combines the two! It feels great to do research that benefits both the organic synthesis community and the planet.

What are your professional aspirations?

I'm on track to start my Ph.D. in August. Eventually, I would like to work for a company developing sustainable methods of materials synthesis.

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Reach out to people you are interested in working with as early as possible! Don't be afraid to do research in a field you are not super familiar with - you will learn way more by actually doing research in a field than you could ever learn in the classroom.

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