UNCG’s Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering (JSNN) offers a variety of student organizations to enhance and inform educational experiences. Below are profiles of three organizations and a Q&A with a student leader from each.  

Materials Research Society (MRS) 

MRS is a worldwide organization of materials researchers that promotes communication for the advancement of interdisciplinary materials research and technology. 

Ashley Herring-Nicholas 
Ph.D. in Nanoscience (May 2025) 

Summarize your JSNN experience. 

I’ve experienced overwhelming support from students, faculty, staff, and administration. For the first time, my hard work, dedication, and achievements haven’t gone unnoticed. JSNN has been instrumental in shaping me into my best self.  

Why did you become a member of MRS?  

MRS provides opportunities to network with professionals in the field and to build connections and friendships with other young scientists. Being a leader in MRS enhances my teamwork and communication skills, which are invaluable for my future career.  

Elaborate on MRS’s mission. 

MRS’ mission is to promote communication for the advancement of interdisciplinary materials research by building a dynamic, interactive, and global community of researchers seeking to advance technical excellence and quality of life.  

Provide details on MRS’ creative sustainability project. 

We’re planning a project entitled “Collaborative Educational Program to Communicate Sustainability Through Research, Art, Advocacy, Education, and Outreach.” In the project, graduate students compile their sustainability research to inform undergraduate students, and undergraduates’ output is compiled to challenge high schoolers’ thinking on sustainability. The ultimate goal is to evaluate information dissemination across different academic age groups while simultaneously learning more about the life cycle of nanomaterials with the environment. 

Future Science Policy Leaders (FSPL) 

Designed to foster an understanding of the intersection between science and policy, the FSPL enables students to explore careers in science policy, network with professionals, and develop skills to influence policy decisions that impact research and innovation. 

Maurelio Cabo Jr. 
Ph.D. in Nanoscience (May 2026) 

Summarize your JSNN experience. 

My time at JSNN has been transformative. It has sharpened my expertise in nanomaterials, expanded my network, and strengthened my commitment to advancing sustainable, bio-based technologies and science policy. 

Why did you begin FSPL? 

 I co-founded Future Science Policy Leaders at UNCG with Biology Lecturer Randall Hayes to connect scientific research with public policy. My participation expanded my comprehension of the substantial impact that policy decisions exert on research funding, innovation, and sustainability efforts.  

Elaborate on FSPL’s mission. 

Our mission is to empower future scientists, engineers, and innovators to become effective advocates for evidence-based policies. Through FSPL, we hope to inspire and train the next generation of science policy leaders. 

Describe how FSPL participation benefits JSNN students. 

I see FSPL participation as a bridge between scientific research and real-world impact. FSPL will help students understand how policies shape research funding, regulations, and innovation through hands-on experiences in science communication, advocacy, and leadership.  

Provide details on FSPL’s virtual symposium called “What is US Science Policy?”  

The symposium examines how federal science policy has shaped research and innovation over the past 50 years. This interactive talk will break down key policies, funding structures, and the role of scientists in policymaking, and the event will open doors to collaborations and advocacy opportunities.  

National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE)  

NOBCChE’s goal is to increase the number of minorities in STEM fields. The organization accomplishes this by creating bonds with industry professionals and local school districts to encourage more minorities to pursue a career in STEM.  

Kwaniyah Tuffour
 
Ph.D. in Nanoscience (Spring 2027) 

Summarize your JSNN experience. 

JSNN is a melting pot of diverse cultures and educational backgrounds. Our community is small, like a family, and that’s what makes it special. I enjoy doing research with students and faculty who encourage me. 

Why did you become a member of NOBCChE? 

I became a NOBCChE member because I am passionate about advancing as a Black professional in STEM. NOBCChE provides opportunities to present research, connect with industry and academic leaders, and develop leadership skills. 

Elaborate on NOBCChE’s mission. 

The mission of NOBCChE is to build an inclusive community that empowers Black and underrepresented professionals in STEM through education, mentorship, networking, and professional development. NOBCChE supports students by providing opportunities and fostering a pipeline for future scientists.  

Describe how NOBCChE participation benefits JSNN students. 

Participation in NOBCChE events provides professional development, research exposure, and networking opportunities. Engaging with NOBCChE enhances visibility in the scientific community and supports success in academia, government, and industry. 

Provide details on NOBCChE’s “Degreed to Succeed” workshop. 

This workshop enables students to gain valuable insight about the transition from college to industry. Featuring a senior manager from Raytheon Technologies, the workshop will provide knowledge of industry expectations, essential skills, and strategies for securing opportunities in STEM fields.  

Story by Chad Saleska, AMBCopy LLC 
Photography provided by Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering