Cynthia Pierre
Why did you choose Northwestern?
I chose Northwestern because of the breadth of the research topics in the Materials Science & Engineering Department and the world-class research facilities. Additionally, the research community was vibrant and inclusive, which I attributed to the high level of intra- and inter-department collaborations. Lastly, being located north of Chicago, I knew that I would receive a great education and have opportunities to pursue my other interests and passions.
How would you describe your research and/or work to a non-academic audience? What was it then and/or what it is now?
For my graduate studies, I worked on creating new plastic materials and finding useful applications for new and recycled plastics. Since my graduate studies, I have worked on various platforms from photoresist materials for electronic applications to automotive seating to additives for lubricant formulations. Currently, I am working on identifying renewable feedstocks for refining processes to safely and responsibly deliver fuel products with lower carbon impacts to the world.
Tell us who or what inspired your research and/or work.
I have been blessed with a number of great mentors along my STEM journey that has shaped my past and present research interests. However, there is one that I am forever indebted to and that is Professor John Torkelson. Professor Torkelson really taught me how to strategically identify opportunities and systematically provide solutions; these skills have served me well in every type of research/work that I have embarked on since my graduate studies.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
Throughout my STEM journey, I have been given many platforms where I have worked with or spoken to aspiring scientists and engineers. For each person that I may have inspired or encouraged to pursue their own STEM journey by sharing my story, I am extremely proud of that.
Tell us about a current achievement or something you're working on that excites you.
I became an engineer because I wanted to help make the world a better place for all humankind. One of the most essential items for all people is energy; I am excited about leading the research group that is charged with helping bp's refining portfolio achieve its NetZero ambitions. This will allow us to safely and responsibly deliver renewable energy to the world.
What advice would you give your younger self or someone considering a similar path?
Looking back, I would take more time to engage with people outside of my department. There will never be a time in your life where you are surrounded by such a large number of incredible thought leaders across a myriad of disciplines and topics. While I believe that my journey has been remarkable, I know it is because of the people that I have met along the way that has made it so.