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Strengthening STEM
UT Tyler Chemistry Graduate Awarded Prestigious NSF Fellowship
Claire McGuire of Tyler, a May 2021 chemistry graduate, has been awarded a $138,000
National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship to pursue a doctoral degree.
The award provides an annual stipend of $34,000 per year for three years and $12,000
per year for three years to be applied toward tuition and fees.
The purpose of the NSF program is to help ensure the quality, vitality and diversity of the nation’s scientific and engineering workforce.
The NSF GRFP typically recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing full-time, research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in STEM education. And while McGuire said it was “unheard of” for a graduating senior such as herself to receive the award, chemistry and biochemistry department chair Dr. Tanya Shtoyko isn’t surprised.
“Claire is very intelligent – a hard-working student and an excellent researcher,” said Shtoyko, McGuire’s faculty research adviser. “She has great potential to benefit society and contribute to new scientific knowledge.”
McGuire’s research focuses on the characterization of polymorphs, which are compounds that exhibit different physical characteristics but are the same compound. One example of the concept is demonstrated by the different crystalline forms of carbon. Graphite, diamond and fullerenes are all made of pure carbon, but their chemical and physical properties differ greatly.
“My work specifically focuses on developing new methods for determining new polymorphs,” McGuire said. “This includes using methods like thermal deposition and ionic liquids to control the polymorphic behavior.” The research is important because it can be applied to prescription drug discovery and the manufacturing process, McGuire added.
This fall, McGuire will enroll in the doctoral program at Southern Methodist University in preparation for a career in research and development. She believes UT Tyler has prepared her for career success due to her experience in conducting independent research as an undergraduate.
“I’ve been able to conduct research here at the school and be introduced to new techniques in the lab,” said McGuire, who holds a UT Tyler Bachelor of Science in chemistry. “The school has thoroughly prepared me for the rigors of PhD work through the curriculum and faculty help. It’s been an amazing journey.”
McGuire served as the UT Tyler Student Government Association treasurer and the public relations officer for the student chapter of the American Chemical Society. She also was involved with Babes Helping Babes, Patriot Pride Club and the National Society of Leadership and Success.
Her hobbies and interests include reading, creating unique foods and training for Spartan races and similar extreme physical challenges.
#CAS
Read more from the May 2021 issue!