Team Members
A diverse, internationally recognized research team with a multidisciplinary approach to tackling grand challenges at the intersection of sustainability, human health, and smart manufacturing. The team has highly networked and productive global collaborations, along with excellent mentoring and job placement for students.
Meet Our Team
 | Ankit Rathaur, Ph.D. Student, 2024 – present Research Focus: FEA simulations of paper products |
 | Luis Peña, Ph.D. Student, 2024 – present Research Focus: TEA/LCA of waste to advanced resources |
 | Nishme Zabib, Ph.D. Student, 2024 – present Research Focus: Biocatalysis of Lignocellulosic for Advanced Dewatering |
 | Vaishnavi Srinivasan, Ph.D. Student, 2024 – present Research Focus: MSW Characterization and Biochemical Conversion |
 | Dipta Mozumder, Ph.D. Student, 2024 – present Research Focus: Sustainable Fiber Modifications for Food Packaging |
 | Nazia Jashi, Ph.D. Student, 2024 – present Research Focus: Sustainable Fibers and Packaging Production |
 | Lia Novak, Ph.D. Student, 2024 – present Research Focus: Lignin-based Advanced Materials for Packaging and Sustainable Agriculture |
 | Avisekh Kumar, Ph.D. Student, 2024 – present Research Focus: Smart Conveyor Systems and FEA Simulations |
 | Rakshit Kumar, Ph.D. Student, 2023 – present Research Focus: Lifecycle Analysis of MSW Plastics Fraction |
 | Summia Rahman, Ph.D. Student, 2023 – present Research Focus: MSW Characterization for PFAS Contamination and Environmental Persistence |
 | Lokesh Kumar, Ph.D. Student, 2023 – present Research Focus: Cellulose Crystallinity and Packaging Development |
 | Aditya Sarker, Ph.D. Student, 2023 – present Research Focus: Real-Time Spectroscopic/Image Analysis of Plastics and Valorization |
 | Mariangeles Salas, Ph.D. Student, 2023 – present Research Focus: AI-enabled Smart Conveyor System for Real-time Characterization of MSW |
 | Aakash Upadhyay, Ph.D. Student, 2023 – present Research Focus: Mechanical Modifications of Cellulosic Fibers and Coating Development. |
 | Maria Gonzalez, Ph.D. Student, 2023 – present Research Focus: Enhance Press Dewatering Through Electromechanical Technologies, Co-Chair: Dr. Richard Venditti |
 | Moumita Dey, Ph.D. Student, 2022 – present Research Focus: Biobased Coatings for Hygiene and Packaging |
 | Munmun Basak, Ph.D. Student, 2022 – present Research Focus: Understanding of Industrial Hemp Agronomy, Fiber and Biopolymer Synthesis and Ground Covers Development, Co-Chair: Dr. Lucian Lucia |
 | Lucille Verster, Ph.D. Student, 2022 – present Research Focus: Unravel Degradation Modalities of Synthetic and Bio-based Polymer Fiber Nonwovens, Co-Chair: Dr. Orlin Velev |
 | Naimul Haque, Ph.D. Student, 2021 – present Research Focus: MSW Characterization and Valorization of Paper Fractions, Co-Chair: Dr. Hasan Jameel |
 | Kazi Arafat, Ph.D. Student, 2021 – present Research Focus: Hemp fibers-based molded packaging and hygiene products, Co-Chair: Dr. Hasan Jameel |
 | Raghul Thiyagarajan, M.S. Student, 2023 – present Research Focus: Techno-economic Analysis of MSW, Co-Chair- Dr. Yuan Shin Lee |
 | Dr. Nelson Barrios, Postdoctoral Researcher, 2024 – present Research Focus: Decarbonizing Paper Manufacturing: Integrating Biocatalysts – Computational and Experimental Approaches |
 | Dr. Simran Singh, Postdoctoral Researcher, 2024 – present Research Focus: AI/ML, Cloud Computing, Database Management |
 | Dr. Saurabh Kardam, Postdoctoral Researcher, 2024 – present Research Focus: Molded Products and Coatings |
 | Dr. Tushar Maiti, Postdoctoral Researcher, 2024 – present Research Focus: Enhanced Tissue and Hygiene Products |
 | Dr. Karthik Ananth Mani, Postdoctoral Researcher, 2023 – present Research Focus: Physiochemical modifications of lignocellulose and packaging development |
 | Dr. Stephen Agwuncha, Postdoctoral Researcher, 2023 – present Research Focus: Testing and Advanced Characterization Techniques Development |
 | Dr. Raman Rao, Postdoctoral Researcher, 2023 – present Research Focus: MSW characterization, Food and Textiles Valorization |
 | Dr. Sharmita Bera, Postdoctoral Researcher, 2023 – present Research Focus: Cellulose/nanocellulose chemistry and modifications |
 | Dr. José G. Parra, Visiting Scholar, 2022 – present Lab. de Química Computacional (QUIMICOMP), Bárbula-Venezuela |
 | Shirin Mohamed, REU, 2023 – present Research Focus: Biopolymers Processing |
 | Tj Ferry, REU, 2022 – present Research Focus: Smart Conveyor System |
 | Isabella Teza, REU, 2022 – present Research Focus: Repulpability and Recyclability Testing |
 | Nick Burrows, REU, 2022 – present Research Focus: Waste Processing and Analysis |
Past Members
| Sky Johnson, REU, 2024 Research Focus: Recycling and Waste Valorization | |
| Emma Gandy, REU, 2022- 2024 Joined Georgia-Pacific Company Research Focus: Recycling and Waste Valorization | |
| Allen Stockburger, REU, 2022-2023 Research Focus: Cellulose Dewatering | |
| Mrittika Debnath, Ph.D., 2024 Dissertation: Alternative Fiber-based High Barrier Flexible Packaging Materials, Co-Chair: Dr. Martin Hubbe | |
| Nelson Barrios, Ph.D., 2024 Postdoctoral Researcher at NC State University Research Focus: Decarbonizing Paper Manufacturing: Integrating Biocatalysts – Computational and Experimental Approaches, Co-Chair: Dr. Richard Venditti | |
| Roman Sarder, Ph.D., 2023, Senior Research Scientist at WestRock Company Dissertation: Sustainable Fibers from Alternative Resources, Modifications, and Biopolymers for Food Packaging, Coatings, and Composite Manufacturing, Co-chair: Dr. Lucian Lucia | |
| Moumita Nanjiba, M.S., 2023 Research Scientist at WestRock Company Thesis: Development of Sustainable Packaging Materials from Wood Residues, Co-Chair: Dr. Lucian Lucia | |
| Vasudev Sethuraman, M.S, 2023, Process Engineer at Dish Networks, Thesis: Topology Optimization of Fiber-Based Paper Plates using computer-aided design and Finite Elemental Analysis. Co-Chair: Dr. Yuan Shin Lee | |
| Kamlesh Pandey, M.S., 2023, Digital Solution Engineer, Buckman Thesis: Data-Driven Modeling, Data Collection, and Energy Management in Paper Drying Process, Co-Chair: Dr. Yuan Shin Lee | |
| Lucy Jones, REU, 2023, FB-PSE Research Focus: WARM Workshop | |
| Jonathan Simis, REU, 2023, FB- PSE WARM Workshop | |
| Josh Carter, REU, 2023, FB- PSE Research: Paper/Packaging Testing | |
| Jade Williamson, REU, 2023, FB- PSE Research: Paper Waste Characterization | |
| Seth Laney, REU, 2023, Environmental Sciences, Research: Plastics Waste Characterization and Imaging | |
| Jenna Haskell, REU, 2023, Environmental Sciences Research: Data Repository | |
| David Perry, REU, 2023, FB- PSE Research: Recycling/Paper Testing | |
| Eli Rodrigues, REU, 2023, FB- PSE Research:Food Waste Characterization | |
| Luke Oates, REU, 2022-2023, FB- PSE Research: Fiber Dewatering | |
| Cori Sutton, REU, 2022, FB- PSE Research: Agro-based fibers Development | |
| Erin Walter, REU, 2022, FB, SMT Research: Alternative Packaging Development | |
| Autumn-Sky Williams, REU, 2022, FB, SMT Research: Hemp-Based Bioproducts | |
| Kaya Kusmierczuk, REU, 2022, FB- PSE Research: Bioplastics | |
| Ashley Hunsucker, REU, 2022, Research: Environmental Sciences, Carbon Sequestration Analysis | |
| Allan Berduo, REU, 2022, FB- PSE Research: Imaging of Solid Waste | |
| Lydia Walston, REU, 2022, FB- PSE Research: Imaging and Spectroscopic Analysis | |
| Sydney Crush, REU, 2022, FB- PSE Research: Polymer Color Measurement | |
| Iggy Senchak, REU, 2022, FB- PSE Research: Smart Manufacturing- Data Historian | |
| Eduardo Sanchez, REU, 2022, FB- PSE Research: Sustainable Packaging and Drying | |
| Thomas Echelberger, REU, 2022, FB- PSE Research: Dewatering of Cellulosic Fibers | |
| Madilynn Smith, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher, 2021 – 2022 Working as Chemistry Teaching Lab Manager, Textile Engineering, Chemistry, and Science, Wilson College of Textiles, NC State Research: Lignocellulosic Dewatering | |
| Heather Starkey, Ph.D., 2022 Research Scientist at Monadnock Paper Mills Dissertation: Development and Application of Lignin Containing Micro-and Nano-Fibrillated Cellulose for Sustainable Packaging Solutions. Co-chair: Dr. Hasan Jameel | |
| Ayomikun Olarinoye, M.S., 2022, Process Engineer at ND Paper Thesis: Benchmarking of Foodservice Products for Sustainable Development and Development of Rigidity, Bacon and Hot Oil Tests. Co-Chair: Dr. Marty Hubbe | |
| Yunhao Zhang, M.S., Spring 2022 Joined Ph.D. Program at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Thesis: Smart Manufacturing: The Implementation of Industry 4.0 and Energy Management for Paper Industry, Co-Chair: Dr. Yuan-Shin Lee | |
| Victoria Kelly, REU, FB- SMT, 2021-2023 Research: Chemical Technology of Alternative Fibers | |
| Aiden Stewart, REU, Summer 2021 Research: Integration of smart tools and sensors in paper pilot machine, Co-Mentor: Dr. Byrd | |
| Nicole Hamm, REU, Summer 2021 Research: Paper characterization and molded packaging | |
| Gurcan Guler, Ph.D., 2021 – 2022 Faculty at Isparta University of Applied Sciences Faculty of Forestry Isparta/Turkey | |
| Samaher Salem, Ph.D., Spring 2021 Faculty at University of Dhaka Dissertation: The Dynamics of Cellulose-Water Interactions from the Nanoscale to the Macroscale to Unravel its Effects on Fiber and Paper Properties, Co-Chair: Dr. Lucian Lucia | |
| Monika Mali, Independent Study, Spring 2021 M.S. in Textile Engineering and Science Research Topic Research: Understanding Binding of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds With Cellulosic Based Fibers and Wipes, Co-mentor: Dr. Mathur | |
| Trevor Hinshaw, REU, Summer and Fall 2020, Spring 2021 Research: Develop Digital Twin Model of Pilot Paper Machine | |
| Rukmini Arcot, REU, Summer 2020 & Teaching Assistant, Spring 2021 Research: Multivariate Analysis and Modeling of Big Data from Paper Machine | |
| Remington Hough, REU, Fall 2020 & Spring 2021 Research: Study of Lignocellulose Fibers Pressing and Dewatering | |
| Seanna Miller, REU, Summer & Fall 2020, Spring 2021 Research: Solutions for Invasion of Single-Use Plastics and Microplastics in Everyday Life | |
| James Lewis, REU, Summer 2020 Research: Prospect of Industrial Hemp Valorization in US | |
| Heaven Davis, REU, Summer and Fall 2020, Spring 2021 Research: Advances in Feminine Hygiene Products Sustainability and Test Methodology | |
| Kaitlyn Pittman, REU, Summer and Fall 2020 Modify Paper-Based Packaging Surfaces to Repel Coronavirus | |
| Kathryn Clayson, REU, Summer and Fall 2020 Research: The Trash Tragedy: Overcoming the Major Obstacles in Solid Waste Management | |
| Tyler Warlow, REU, Summer and Fall 2020 Research: Study Paper-Based Packaging Surfaces and Environmental Interactions to Develop Anti-Coronavirus Packages | |
| Xiaohang Sun, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher, 2016- 2020, Faculty at Sun Yat-sen University Research in cellulose derivatives, hydrogel-based sensing materials, plasma chemistry, barrier coatings, modeling, and flexible electronics | |
| Joseph Gutierrez, M.S., Fall 2020 Joined Ph.D. Program at NC State University Thesis: Evaluation and Characterization of Biopolymers to Reduce the Usage of Synthetic Polymers in Single-use Disposable Materials, Coating, and Packaging, Co-Chair: Dr. Richard Venditti | |
| Ahsen Bildik Dal, Ph.D., Visiting Faculty, 2020 Faculty at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Research Information System Research: Hydrophobic Surface Treatment Additives for Paper and Packaging, Co-Host: Dr. Martin Hubbe | |
| Sachin Agate, Ph.D., Fall 2019 Working at Mars Wrigley Dissertation: Advances in Biomaterials for Flexible Electronics and Optics, Co-Chair: Dr. Lucian Lucia | |
| Preeti Tyagi, Ph.D., Summer 2019 Working at Mars Wrigley Dissertation: Nanocellulose-based Sustainable Barrier and Antimicrobial Coatings, Co-Chair: Dr. Martin Hubbe | |
| Hao Zang, Ph.D., Visiting Faculty, 2018-2019 Faculty Henan University of Engineering Research: Cellulose and nanocellulose-based conductive composites for functional and flexible sensors/electronics, Co-Host: Dr. Martin Hubbe | |
| Michael Joyce, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher, 2016 – 2018 Working at Reynolds American Inc. Research: Biobased barrier coatings and novel drying systems for food packaging and applications. | |
| Shuai Lee, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher, 2017, Working at Fiberstar, Inc. Research: Sustainable high lignin containing coated release liner papers and coatings | |
| Yuanyuan Yin, Ph.D., Visiting Scholar, 2017 Lecturer at Qingdao University Research: Lipase-catalyzed cellulose nanocrystal-laurate esters embedded in PLA, Co-Host: Dr. Martin Hubbe | |
| Peter Gough, REU 2020, PSE Research: Process Intelligence for Enhanced Worker Safety | |
| Tanner Evans, REU 2020, PSE Research: Multivariate Data Analysis and Modeling, Co-mentor: Dr. Byrd | |
| John Bedard, REU 2020, PSE Research: IIoT Technologies for Pilot Plant Testbeds | |
| Kyle Broadbelt, REU 2020, PSE Research: Industry 4.0 Technological Advances | |
| Devin Wyatt, REU 2020, PSE Research: Review of Facemasks Technologies | |
| Michael Tozer, REU 2020, PSE Research: Antimicrobial Technologies for Food Packaging | |
| Bennett Surreett, REU 2020, PSE Research: Discrete & Sustainable Hygiene Products | |
| Mason Broadway, REU 2020-2021, PSE Research:Hemp Techno-Economic Analysis | |
| Peter Janecek, REU 2020, PSE Research: Single Use Plastics Environmental Remediation | |
| Michael Litavecz, REU 2020, Forest Biomaterials Research: Eco-friendly Materials for 3D Printing | |
| Alisha Spradlin, COT-TATM 2020 Research: Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management, Sustainable Developments in Feminine Hygiene, Co-mentor: Dr. Mathur | |
| Ian Peterson, REU 2019-2020, PSE Research: Data Archiving, co-mentored with Dr. Byrd | |
| Nick Starrett, REU 2019, PSE Research: Nanocellulose Production form Mill Sludge Waste | |
| Allison Brame, REU 2019, PSE Research: Paper Straws Testing, Co-mentor: Dr. Venditti | |
| Ameer Desilva, REU 2019, PSE Research: Lignocellulosic Composites Development, Co-mentor: Dr. Argyropoulos | |
| Kadin Peterman, Provost’s Professional Experience 2019, PSE Research: Functional Coatings | |
| Tressa Glackin Provost’s Professional Experience 2019, PSE Research: Banana Paper Development | |
| Abhiram Kondagunta, REU 2019, PSE Research: 3D Printing of Biomaterials | |
| Erik Dahlgren, REU 2019, PSE Research: Data Analytics and AI | |
| Anvita Panajkar, REU 2019, PSE Research: Lignin-containing Paper Coatings | |
| Andrew McKee, REU 2019, PSE Research: Functional Papers Development | |
| Austin Batchelor REU 2019, PSE Research: PM Upgrades, Co-mentor: Dr. Byrd | |
| Brandon Sanchez, REU 2019, PSE Research: PM Upgrades, Co-mentored: Dr. Byrd | |
| Chris Johnson, REU 2019, PSE Research: Light Weight Packaging Paper Development, Co-mentor: Dr. Jameel | |
| Matthew Klassa, REU 2019, PSE Research: 3D Printing of Biobased Materials | |
| Aitana Blevins REU 2018, PSE Research: Banana Fiber and Paper Development | |
| Austin Stallings, REU 2018, PSE Research: Tissue and Towels Products Development | |
| Riley Webb, REU 2018, PSE Research: Papermachine Rebuild, Co-mentor: Dr. Byrd | |
| William Maier, REU 2018, Forest Biomaterials Research: Dynamic Handsheet Forming | |
| Ethan Schwartz, REU 2018, PSE Research: Lignocellulose-based Cement Composites Development, Co-mentor: Dr. Argyropoulos | |
| Sharmita Dixit, REU 2018, Biology Research: DNA Extraction Process | |
| Michael Alcivar, REU 2018, Forest Biomaterials Research: Nanocellulose Dust, Co-mentor: Dr. Lucia | |
| Audra Chenoweth, REU 2018, PSE Research: Nanocellulose Applications in Packaging, Co-mentor: Dr. Jameel | |
| Aiden Royals, REU 2018, PSE Research: Paper Straw Testing Methodology | |
| Mathew Frink, REU 2017-2018, PSE Research: Flexible Electronics Printing | |
| Thomas Keeshan, REU 2017-2018, PSE Research: Flexible Electronics Paper | |
| Nikos Castillo, REU 2017, PSE Research: Paper Characterization | |
| Jeffery Hunter, REU 2017-2018, PSE Research: Paper and Coating Testing | |
| Kable Young, REU 2016, PSE, Research: Tissue Paper Making, Co-mentor: Dr. Lucia | |
| Kimberly Abrams, REU 2016, PSE Research: Paper Coating | |
| Michael Brown, REU 2016 & 2018, PSE Research: Nanocellulose-based Inks | |
| Bailey Tebou, REU 2016, Forest Biomaterials Research: Bio-based Materials for 3D Printing |