Megan Minassian

Core—Shell Nanostructures for Thermochromic Fenestration Applications

• Synthesized vanadium (IV) oxide (VO2) nanocrystals encapsulated in a germania (GeO2) shell to enhance infrared modulation and prevent oxidation of VO2.
• Fabricated films by combining VO2 nanocrystals with ethyl acrylate copolymer, casting onto glass slides, and evaluating infrared transmission using Bruker FT-IR spectrometer for performance analysis.
• Optimized shell thickness and reduced optical haze while while maintaining high near-infrared modulation efficiency.

Metal Oxide/Quantum Dot (QD) Heterostructures as Catalysts for Photocatalytic Water Splitting

• Synthesized PbxCuyV2O5 nanorods interfaced with CdS quantum dots (QDs) using Successive Ion Layer Absorption and Reaction (SILAR) method to improve photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
• Confirmed CdS QD integration and optimal loading via SEM-EDS and Raman spectroscopy, with an increasing QD concentration observed across multiple SILAR cycles.
• Achieved improved photocatalytic performance, with Pb0.08Cu0.33V2O5 outperforming Pb0.01Cu0.47V2O5 in hydrogen production, demonstrating the synergistic effect of Pb2+ and Cu2+ cations on photocatalytic activity.

• Handled administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing client communications, organizing events or workshops that maintained smooth business operations at the ceramic studio.
• Optimized kiln usage by carefully loading and unloading ceramics, minimizing breakage and maximizing space utilization.
• Managed social media presence for the ceramic studio, showcasing completed works to attract new clients and generate interest in workshops.
• Streamlined clay preparation processes with thorough wedging and reclaiming methods, reducing waste and saving resources.
• Supported artists'' creative process by providing knowledgeable advice on techniques and material choices, enhancing their final products.
• Increased customer satisfaction with attentive service during workshops and classes for both beginners and experienced students.
• Mentored new studio assistants on best practices and procedures within the ceramic studio environment, leading to a more cohesive and productive team dynamic.
• Increased studio efficiency by tracking inventory levels of raw materials, tools, and equipment while making timely reorder requests as needed.
• Enhanced ceramic art quality by implementing efficient studio organization and inventory management techniques.
• Provided excellent customer service during pottery sales events, engaging with potential buyers and answering questions about artists'' work or techniques used.
• Contributed to successful art exhibits through meticulous packing, transportation, and display set-up of ceramic artwork.
• Facilitated constructive feedback sessions among artists, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and learning within the studio community.