Spotlight on Chemical and Biological Engineering

Assistant Professor Nat Eagan and PhD student Tofunmi Adeniran look at samples in the lab together. Both are wearing safety goggles.

Student highlight

Name: Tofunmi Adeniran
Degree: PhD in Chemical Engineering
Faculty lab: Assistant Professor Nathaniel Eagan
Hometown: Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

Why Tufts?
I discovered Tufts University during a virtual graduate research fair I attended. Initially drawn to the distinctive shade of blue and unique prints associated with its name, I decided to explore the school further. Upon researching Tufts, I found that its chemical engineering program aligns well with my academic and research interests. I was particularly impressed to find professors actively engaged in research areas that resonate with my own. Since joining Tufts, the experience has been great. The small class sizes foster a close-knit community, allowing for meaningful relationships with professors and a personalized learning environment that enhances my academic journey.

Favorite thing about living in the Medford/Somerville and Boston area?
One aspect I particularly like about the Medford/Somerville area is the tranquility and picturesque scenery. The peaceful environment allows me to appreciate the surroundings fully. Additionally, I enjoy the abundance of restaurants, as it provides me with the opportunity to indulge in and explore a variety of new cuisines.

Any advice you’d give to prospective students or new graduate students?
For new or prospective graduate students, establishing connections within the school and program while actively seeking information is crucial. As an international student, I prioritized engagement in events organized by the iCenter [International Center], through which I forged connections with fellow international students in my department. Additionally, I made a conscious effort to ask questions whenever uncertainties arose. I believe that these practices are essential for maximizing the benefits of your graduate school journey.

Assistant Professor Nat Eagan and Tofunmi Adeniran working together in the lab.

Faculty highlight

Name: Assistant Professor Nathaniel Eagan
Research interests: Sustainability, experimental heterogeneous catalysis, clean energy, fuels and chemicals, biomass

About Assistant Professor Eagan:
Nathaniel Eagan obtained his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in 2014 before pursuing a PhD in Chemical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin, Madison under the direction of Professor George Huber. He earned his PhD in 2019 with a thesis entitled “Catalytic Conversion of Biomass-Derived Platform Molecules to Distillate-Range Fuels.” Eagan then spent one year investigating catalysis by dilute alloys as a postdoctoral associate at Tufts in the IMASC EFRC under the supervision of Maria Flytzani-Stephanopoulos, the Robert and Marcy Haber Endowed Professor in Energy Sustainability, and Charles Sykes, the John Wade Professor of Chemistry, before transferring to Harvard University to continue this work under the supervision of Professor Cynthia Friend and Professor Robert Madix. He returned to the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Tufts as an assistant professor in fall 2021. His research focuses on understanding and developing new catalysts and catalytic processes to sustainably convert abundant waste resources into the fuels and chemicals upon which our society is built. Outside of Tufts, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife Kayla, cat Mira, and puppy Arlo while adventuring throughout New England.