NASA Glenn Academy 2006

NASA Academy 2006
Glenn Research Center
2006 GRC Academy Home

Megan E. Warner

Denison University
Granville, OH

Chemistry
Bachelor of Science, May 2007

NASA Academy Research Project

Decay Kinetics of a Series of Photoenols NASA Principal Investigator: Dr. Michael Meador

Education

I set out on the path to be a chemistry major, but due to strong mentoring, I was encouraged to include mathematics. As a rising senior at Denison University I am eagerly looking toward the future and how I can intertwine both disciplines and incorporate more space science as I strive for a Ph.D.

Experience

The Photovoltaics and Space Environments Branch at NASA Glenn provided my practical experience. I researched quantum dots (fluorescing nanoparticles) for use in a new type of battery.

At Denison, I have enjoyed researching the purification of chlorophyll a in organic chemistry. I will continue a project in the fall, for my senior research, which involves the incorporation of quantum dots into an ionic liquid for uses in electrochemistry.

As a co-president of the Denison Chemical Society and a student affiliate of the American Chemical Society, I have worked diligently to encourage more students and faculty to be involved with chemistry. I have enjoyed the opportunity to provide students, intrigued with the prospects of chemistry as a major, a community to be active in.

Extra-Curricular Activities

This past year I was the finance chair for Denison’s Relay For Life. Our small school, with just over 2,000 students, raised more than $75,000 for the American Cancer Society. It was a wonderful event to plan and an excellent experience in learning to budget.

I am also a member of the Volleyball team at Denison. I am a defensive specialist and enjoy the opportunity to be part of a team. I believe the value of teamwork is reinforced with participation in college athletics.

Another interest of mine is exercise in all shapes and forms! I enjoy going to the gym and playing intramural sports. Dancing for 14 years has led to a deep appreciation for ballet. Although I have not had as much time to dance as I would like, I am still a ballerina at heart! I enjoy the beach and relaxing with an entertaining novel while listening to the great roar of the ocean!