Summer scholars share their stories: Sofia Lascano

The Tufts Summer Scholars Program supports independent research experiences for a handful of undergraduate students each summer. Scholars spend ten weeks working closely with a faculty mentor to pursue a research project of their choosing. Their work culminates in a series of presentations at a poster session in the fall and the Undergraduate Research Symposium in the spring. This summer, seven juniors and seniors in the School of Engineering were selected for the program. This series highlights some of their experiences. 

What are you working on this summer?

I work in the Asatekin Lab to develop selective polymer membranes that can separate heavy metal ions from water. These membranes rely on zwitterionic chemistry—meaning their structure contains both positively and negatively charged functional groups. By tailoring the chemistry of these groups and running performance tests, we aim to enhance the membranes’ ability to selectively reject metal ions while allowing water to pass through.

Why did you decide to do the Summer Scholars Program?

Conducting research in a lab environment is one of the reasons I chose Tufts for my undergraduate degree. The Summer Scholars Program offered the perfect chance to secure the valuable mentorship of a faculty member, work closely with PhD students, and figure out if grad school is the path for me. I can gain hands-on lab experience relevant to my academic interests, and meet peers who are conducting research completely different from my own. 

Who is your faculty mentor? How are they supporting your work?

I am lucky enough to be working with Associate Professor Ayse Asatekin who is also my major advisor. She supported me through writing my project proposal and has met with me regularly throughout the summer to guide my project in the right direction for the final research poster presentation. She also introduced me to Nafiseh Khoshnevisan, who is the PhD candidate I am working with. 

What has stood out to you the most in your lab experience so far?

I have most enjoyed the real-time learning that happens in a lab environment. You have to learn to adapt and to think on your feet to tackle challenges that arise. With the help of Nafiseh, my mentor in the lab, I am refining my problem-solving skills every day. This is something that will not only be useful in the context of this work, but also throughout my career.

How has your Tufts experience impacted your career goals?

These past two years have helped me shape a better idea of who I want to be as a student and a professional. It has broadened my scope of what the field of chemical engineering can offer, from academia to industry, and offered a range of opportunities, such as this summer program, to sharpen my professional skills and expand my network. I am thankful for all the knowledge and opportunities I have received and look forward to what’s to come in the remaining years.