Two OSU chemical engineering students receive Niblack Research Scholarship
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Media Contact: Desa James | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-2669 | desa.james@okstate.edu
Rachel Davis and Noor Atiyeh, undergraduate students in the School of Chemical Engineering, have been awarded the Niblack Research Scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year.
The Niblack Research Scholars Program at Oklahoma State University supports undergraduates by providing opportunities to conduct research in OSU labs under the guidance of faculty researchers and graduate student mentors. Funded by Dr. John Niblack, the program aims to give students an early appreciation for research, helping them decide on their career paths and enhancing their academic success. Scholars receive stipends and are expected to engage in hands-on research throughout the academic year and summer, concluding in an oral presentation to Niblack. This program fosters a unique educational experience, promoting academic and professional growth among participants.
Davis — working with Dr. Sundar Madihally, a chemical engineering professor — will explore using sodium alginate and chitosan hydrogels as innovative restorative dental materials. Her research will assess the stability of hydrogels under various pH conditions that mimic the oral environment and examine how their structure and performance hold up over time. Following the initial evaluations, Davis plans to explore 3D printing that are custom-fit shapes, aiming to lay the groundwork for creating biocompatible and cost-effective dental restoratives.
“Hands-on lab work gives me practical experience in designing experiments, solving problems and thinking critically,” Davis said. “This research experience is a key step toward my goals of pursuing dentistry and potentially a dual Ph.D."
Atiyeh — working with Dr. Hong Je Cho, a chemical engineering assistant professor — will focus on the catalytic conversion of biomass-derived compounds into sustainable aviation fuels. Specifically, she will be investigating how the structure of the zeolite catalysts affects their performance in conversion reactions, contributing to the development of cleaner, renewable alternative jet fuels.
“This opportunity will give me a closer look at real-world challenges in engineering sustainability," Atiyeh said. “I am most excited about the opportunity to learn and work alongside experts in this field. Both my faculty advisor and graduate student mentor bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, and I look forward to learning from their guidance.”
Atiyeh and Davis were inspired to apply for the Niblack Research Scholarship because of the supportive environment at OSU and the chance to learn in an environment that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving while challenging them to step outside their comfort zones.
“My advisor has inspired me to think creatively and pursue meaningful questions,” Davis said.
The Niblack Research Scholars Program continues to be a cornerstone of academic and professional development at OSU, providing students with invaluable research experiences that help to shape their future careers.
Story By: Natalie Henderson | Prospective Student Services Coordinator | natalie.henderson@okstate.edu