JESSICA XU
Houston
Summary
Junior at Rice University from Boston, MA studying Civil Engineering with an Environmental Focus. Experienced in scientific research and knowledgeable about environmental issues affecting the Gulf Coast region. Focused on leveraging data analysis and software programs to advance clean energy initiatives. Demonstrated adaptability and organization in work and internship settings for multiple summers. Motivated to improve community experiences relating to built environments.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Assistant
Elimelech Lab
09.2025 - Current
- Assist postdoctoral students in chemical experiments on various saltwater membranes
- Test membranes for efficacy in filtering brines for water treatment
EXPLORE Program Research Assistant
Rice University
09.2024 - Current
- Conduct experiments on rock samples at high pressure and temperature to assess permeability changes through time in Sierra white granite, simulating EGS conditions
- Attend group meetings in Rice’s Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences Department
Art & Design Director
Rice University
03.2023 - Current
- Oversee design of all layout The Thresher, Rice’s student-run newspaper
- Create infographics and illustrations to increase visual appeal of the paper
- Manage team of 8+ illustrators and 6 designers
Hydrology & Hydraulics Intern
Pape-Dawson Engineers
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Worked on projects across both Hydrology and Hydraulics divisions under supervisor Randy Haney
- Gained experience in HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, and Civil 3D (AutoCAD)
- Provided research and calculation support to a large-diameter pipeline project in North Texas
Undergraduate Research Intern
Rice Environmental Studies Department
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Conducted research on pressing environmental issues
- Interviewed journalists from across Texas on topics of relevance to current events
- Recorded podcast episodes (up to 60 min) to be broadcast on KPFT Houston weekly
Education
B.S. - Civil Engineering
Rice University
Houston, TX05.2027
High School Degree - undefined
Phillips Academy
06.2023
Skills
- Adobe Suite
- Data analysis
- Organization
- Microsoft Suite
- Matlab
- Adaptability
Languages
English (native)
French (intermediate)
Mandarin (native)
Timeline
Research Assistant
Elimelech Lab
09.2025 - Current
Hydrology & Hydraulics Intern
Pape-Dawson Engineers
06.2025 - 08.2025
EXPLORE Program Research Assistant
Rice University
09.2024 - Current
Undergraduate Research Intern
Rice Environmental Studies Department
06.2024 - 08.2024
Art & Design Director
Rice University
03.2023 - Current
High School Degree - undefined
Phillips Academy
B.S. - Civil Engineering
Rice University
Awards/Activities
- Rice University Civil and Environmental Engineering Department's Nominated Outstanding Junior for Academic Year 2025-26
- One of four undergraduate students selected for the Rice Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry's 2025-2026 cohort of the Scholars Transforming Through Research (STR) program, under by the national Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR)
- Recipient of the Ryan Marrocco Scholarship, Frozen & Refrigerated Association of the North East (FRANE) (2023)
- The President’s Volunteer Award (Gold), (250+ volunteer hours) (2022)
- Rice University President’s Honor Roll (Fall 2024 and Spring 2025)