Emma Tackman, Graduate Research Assistant/PhD Sp 2023, Industry or Government Analytical/Environmental Chemist

EMMA TACKMAN, The Pennsylvania State University

     Abstract Number: 630
     Working Group: Meet the Job Seekers

Abstract
Currently at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802

My graduate work has focused on the synthesis and microscopic characterization of microdroplets and nanomaterials for use as proxies for atmospheric aerosol particles. Currently, I am developing a fluorescent probe for measuring the internal pH of aerosol particles. I am also studying the interactions between deposited aerosol particles and their substrates to better understand the differences between measurements of suspended and deposited particles. In the past, I have examined the phase transitions of mixed organic/inorganic model aerosol particles and the influence of increasing sucrose concentration.

My primary interests are environmental and analytical chemistry. I have experience in and I am passionate about both spectroscopy and microscopy. My undergraduate work at the University of Notre Dame involved the identification of falsified pharmaceuticals using surface-enhanced Raman, culminating in a first author publication. For my graduate studies at Penn State, I chose to pursue atmospheric chemistry with the hope that my work will fit into a larger context of climate change mitigation efforts. Here, I have chiefly used optical and electron microscopy for the examination of the physical and chemical characteristics of aerosol particles in an atmospheric context.

I am seeking a position in industry or government as an analytical and/or environmental chemist. I will be available for such a position starting mid Spring 2023 with location preferences in the North or Northeast regions of the US.