About Us
- History
PR-SPRInT was born in 2019 from the need to forge professionals interested in aerospace and the basic sciences related to NASA missions. With this in mind, a group of Professors from different disciplines and led by Dr. Eduardo Nicolau, took on the task of devising a project in this direction. The project was designed with students in mind, and as such the program seeks to support them to persist in their academic degrees to eventually graduate. One of the peculiarities of this project is that it provides professional development opportunities, workshops in scientific entrepreneurship and in the development of prototypes and 3D printing. Participating students and professors have the unique opportunity to collaborate and carry out work in conjunction with NASA scientists. PR-SPRInT aims to be spearheading in the development of training programs related to NASA’s goals.
The project has the University of Puerto Rico-Río Piedras as the lead institution with other three participating institutions: University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez, University of Puerto Rico-Cayey and the Gurabo Campus of the Ana G. Méndez University System.
- Vision
The vision of the PR-SPRInT is to serve as a platform and common groundfloor for researchers, students and teachers to create a community that engage the next generation of explorers.
- Mision
The mission of the PR-SPRInT is to train and support a cohort of students and faculty to collectively work on NASA mission goals related to life support systems and batteries.
- Values
Engaging, Inclusive, Collaborative, Futuristic.
Principal Investigator
Dr. Eduardo Nicolau
Director, Associate Professor
Office: Facundo Bueso 113
Education
- 2012 – Ph. D. Analytical Chemistry, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus, Puerto Rico, USA
- 2005 – BS Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus, Puerto Rico, USA
Dr. Eduardo Nicolau is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Puerto Rico-Río Piedras (UPR-RP) Campus. He completed a doctoral degree at UPR-RP on Chemistry focusing on the development of technologies for energy and water reclamation applications. Following these interests and in collaboration with the NASA Ames Research Center, Dr. Nicolau presented a proof-of-concept (patented) for a device to ultimately generate energy and purified water from urine.
Nicolau’s research laboratory seeks to understand and contribute in the areas of:
- Water purification: Design, synthesis and fabrication of bioinspired membranes for molecular separations in the liquid phase
- Tissue regeneration: Bioactive electrospun fiber mats as regenerative surfaces for bone regeneration
- Sensors: Aptamer/Block-copolymer templated electrodes for the detection of neurotoxins and contaminants
Personnel
Dra. Liz Díaz
Co-Director, Associate Professor
Office: Facundo Bueso 113
Nilsa Aponte
Project Manager
Office: DEGI
Dra. María M. Gil Barvo
Coordinator, Education and Outreach
Office: DEGI
Faculty
Dra. Yomaira Pagán
Associate Professor
Office: IQ-207-E
Dr. Arturo Hernández
Professor of Chemical Engineering
Office: IQ-105-N
Dr. Juan M. López
Associate Professor.
Office: Nuevo Edificio de Ciencias, NEC-125D
Dr. Ram Katiyar
Professor
Office: Facundo Bueso Building, FB14/ FB224
Dr. Zhongfang Chen
Professor
Office: Facundo Bueso 265
Dr. Gerardo Morell
Professor
Office: Facundo Bueso Building, FB 304
Dr. Brad R Weiner
Professor
Office: Facundo Bueso Building, FB 304
Dr. Miguel A. Goenaga
Assistant Professor
Office: EDI 204
- Google Scholar
- (787) 743-7979 x 4195
- mgoenaga1@uagm.edu
-
Ana G. Mendez University-Gurabo Campus
School of Engineering, PO Box 3030
Gurabo, PR 00778-3030
Dr. Dalice M. Piñero Cruz
Professor
Office: Facundo Bueso Building 135-C; Laboratory FB103
Dr. Xianyong WU
Professor
Office: Facundo Bueso Building 134
- Google Scholar
- (1-787) 764-0000 x 88545
- xianyong.wu@upr.edu
- University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus Department of Chemistry 17 University Ave. Ste. 1701 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00925-2537
COLLABORATORS
Prof. Rafael Vargas Correa
School of Architecture, FabLab
Prof. Manuel Lobato
School of Business
Graduate Students
Miguel A. Sepúlveda Pagán
M.Sc. Chemical Engineering
Future Goals: : Ph.D.
Project: Nickel-based catalysts for efficient CO2 conversion and improved CH4 selectivity.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About Me: I enjoy fishing. going to the beach, traveling.
Crystal Otero Vélez
Ph. D, Student, Chemistry
Project: Synthesis of Ultra Hydrophobic Metallophthalocyanines Compounds for NOx Gas Sensing.
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInt
Future goals: My future goal is to become an investigator and educator with a passion of contributing on the development of the future generations of scientists and researchers.
About me: On my free time I enjoy reading novels, traveling, and learning new things.
Daniel Esteban Sotelo Jiménez
Ph.D. Student
Project: Development of robust CO2 selectives, high capacity nanoporous adsorbents for life support systems in deep space exploration.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
Future goals: To increase the carbon dioxide uptake capacity of the composite material via surface functionalization.
About me: First-year doctoral student in chemical engineering at UPRM. I completed my undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering at Universidad del Atlántico – Colombia.
Álvaro Guerrero Laos
Ph.D. Student Chemical Physics
Project: Computational design of anode materials for Li-ion batteries and beyond.
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInt
Future goals: Doctoral degree.
About me: I am from Colombia. Currently, I am a Ph.D. candidate in Chemical-Physics at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras campus. I am working at Dr. Chen’s lab focused on the computational materials design field. I earned a master’s degree in Physical Sciences from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez campus.
Shweta Puran
Ph.D. Student Chemical Physics
Project: Electrochemical performance of Li2MnO3 coated spinel LiNi8/10Mn1/10Co1/106O2 (NMC811) cathodes.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
Future goals: Seek ways to improve the electrochemical performance of the Li2MnO3-coated NMC 811 cathodes.
About me: I love learning and I have a strong interest in understanding how the universe works. I completed both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Physics. Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in Chemical Physics where I combine my knowledge of Physics and Chemistry to explore discoveries. I believe that education is important, so I also completed a degree in Education to become a teacher. However, my passion lies in research and academia, which is why I am now focused on my Ph.D.
Sonyang Chang
Ph.D. Student Chemistry
Project: Developing high-safety, fast-charging, and low-temperature batteries for NASA exploration missions.
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInt
Future goals: Employed as Professor or Engineer.
About me: I am currently a Ph.D. student in the Department of Chemistry, working under Prof. Wu on aqueous batteries.
Luis Bermúdez
Chemistry Graduate Student
Ph.D. Candidate: Chemistry
Project: Development of reactive and antifouling Janus membranes for water desalination
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInt
Future goals: Work in industry or postdoc
About me: dancing (Salsa & Bachata) , singing and exercises.
Dariana Vega Santander
Project: Removal of monomeric siloxanes from water using zeolitic-based adsorbents.
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
Future goals: My future goal is to become a leading researcher and innovator in the field of sustainable adsorbent materials. I aspire to develop new techniques for adsorption and nonporous materials that can address pressing environmental challenges, such as water purification and air quality improvement.
About me: I am a doctoral student in chemical engineering with a fervent passion for research. I am from Barranquilla, Colombia, and I pursue my degree at the University of Puerto Rico in Mayagüez. My focus is centered in the field of adsorption and nanoporous materials, seeking opportunities to contribute to knowledge and innovation in this field. My goal is to apply my skills and my passion for research to address significant challenges currently facing the environment.
Undergraduate Students
Jashmuel Rodríguez Ramos
BA in General Natural Sciences
Project name: Synthesis of amine-based switched polarity solvents (SPS) to enable a combined technology for the removal of CO2 and water purification in space applications.
Future Goals: To enhance and expand my skills and knowledge in preparation for my graduate studies. I plan to achieve this by actively engaging in relevant courses, attending conferences and seminars, and seeking research opportunities to apply what I learned.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: I am in my fifth and last year of the General Natural Sciences program at the University of Puerto Rico, Cayey campus. My long-term goal is to pursue a PharmD. Beyond my academic pursuits, I have a passion for table tennis.
Ángel Manuel Ortega López
Gabriel Antomattei Alejandro
BA in Chemistry
Future Goals: Establish a long-term relationship with NASA Glenn Research Center and Dr. Witold Fuchs.
Project name: Advanced Electric Aircraft Propulsion Technologies.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: My name is Gabriel Antomattei, and I am an Undergraduate Chemistry student at UPR-Rio Piedras. I started my college career in 2018 at the University of Puerto Rico Mayagüez Campus, where I spent two years in the Biotechnology program. Afterward, I completed a degree in Audio Engineering and then decided to change my path again to use my skills to help society and the planet. I am now finishing my bachelor’s degree in Chemistry in pursuit of entering graduate school and working on the development of clean energy sources. My main interest in participating in the program is to be able to contribute directly to project development, learn different research processes through my own experience, and acquire skills that will help me shape my future and become a better professional.
Diego Costoso Vázquez
Jean Vega
Bs in Chemical Engineering
Future Goals: Expand my skill sets regarding catalysis and selective conversion pathways.
Project name: CO2 Methanation
Research Program: PR-SPRInT
About me:
Katiria Herrera Rosa
Bs Electrical Engineering
Project name: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) for data compilation.
Future Goals: Graduate and get a master’s degree.
Research Program: PR-SPRInT
About me:
José M. Ruiz-Arce
Bs in Chemical Engineering
Future Goals: Graduate and be able to enter the industry, gain experience, and then return to study master’s and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
Project name: CO2 Methanation
Research Program: PR-SPRInT
About me: Chemical Engineering student at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez campus. Within my career I am passionate about research because I have always liked to discover new things and contribute to my society. In addition, I am passionate about music, and I stand out as a percussionist in different groups. I also like sports and Puerto Rican culture.
Armando Bozzo Vázquez
Bs Electrical Engineering
Project name: Unmanned Aerial System for Environmental Data Compilation.
Future Goals: Achieving a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in photovoltaic systems is in to use the knowledge of electrical engineering from my bachelor’s degree with photovoltaic systems and apply Mechanical Engineering concepts such as components, specify materials, costs and duration of execution.
Research Program: PR-SPRInT
About me: Student at the Ana G. Mendez University, Gurabo campus, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. During the last four years on campus, I have worked in different research areas such as CHRES Undergraduate Internship Year-Long Research Program as a researcher student in the project Feasibility study of residential rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems installation, focused on satisfying the energy demand, in supporting of the current grid in Puerto Rico to design a microgrid for the implementation of PV System, and in my first class of capstone with the project hardware systems for elevator fault detection monitor and diagnose the performance of elevators, with the aim of identifying potential failures or problems before they become more serious situations.
Kimberly Meléndez
Bs in Chemistry
Project name:
Future Goals: After completing my degree, I hope to continue with graduate studies towards a PhD in Chemistry. I have found the study of polymers to be very interesting from my research work, which leads me to consider this area as my specialty.
Research Program: PR-SPRInT
About me: I am originally from Fajardo and I’m an undergraduate chemistry student at the University of Puerto Rico Río Piedras Campus coursing my third year of my bachelor’s degree. Since January of 2023 I have been a part of Dr. Eduardo Nicolau’s research laboratory, where I work under the mentorship of graduate student Junellie Cruz.
Victoria V. Viera Sánchez
Bs in Chemistry
Project name: Formulation of skincare products based on macroalgae for extreme temperature conditions.
Future Goals: Given my time in this project, I wish to continue progressing toward an MD/PhD with a specialization in dermatology, either deepening the understanding of its functional mechanisms or modifying the chemical reactions that occur within it. This direction aligns with my aspirations and presents an opportunity to integrate clinical medicine with scientific research, thereby contributing to bridging the gap between both fields.
Research Program: PR-SPRInT
About me: I was born in San Juan and have spent a large part of my life studying in Carolina. My fascination with the functioning of the human being arose from watching documentaries that explored our society and our bodily system, awakening in me a desire to understand how we have become who we are today. In addition to my passionate interest in the interconnection of scientific fields, which contribute to our understanding of the universe, I find a deep admiration for art in all its forms. From painting to music and dance, but above all theater, each artistic discipline provides us with the chance to engage with our humanity distinctly. Art and space are continually intertwined, helping us in our understanding and imagination of the unknown universe inviting us to reflect on our place in the cosmos.
Former Students
Sunny Choudhary
Project: Optimization of electrochemical performance of sodium/sulfur (Na-S) batteries using ferroelectric nanoparticles as an accelerating agent.
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
Future goals: Scientist
About me: I was born and raised in a small village where the most respected profession is teaching. Since my schooling, I have always been attracted to Physics as it answers some of the primary challenges humans face. I intend to base my research on some of the areas in Physics where I can help to improve human life and security.
Keyla A. López Pérez
Ph. D. Student, Chemistry
Future Goals: Complete my Ph.D. and continue with a Post Doctorate
Project: New Generation of Lithium Ion Batteries.
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInt
About me: Love my life in a laboratory, love different kinds of music, perseverant person.
Jennifer (Jenny) Gil Acevedo
Ph.D. in Environmental Science
Project: Microalgae to space
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInt
Future goals: I would like to start my own microalgae business in which I could grow microalgae and make various products with them. I also want to continue giving talks and conferences throughout the world so that everyone knows the importance of microalgae.
About me: I am a first-year Ph. D. in environmental science studying working with microalgae for the potential to waste management in the space environment. I have interned at the Smithsonian twice and was also an AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellow who worked at CNN en Español. I was a 2018-19 Fulbright-National Geographic Digital Storytelling Fellow.
Claudia C. Zuluaga Gómez
M. Sc. Chemistry
Project: Design, elaboration, and application of Lithium-Sulfur batteries, incorporating a controlled concentration of Multiferroic materials.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
Future goals: Complete the requirements to obtain the Ph.D. degree in Chemical Physics and continue with a Post Doctorate.
About me: I have a passion for research, teaching, and working hard to become a pioneer in future scientific and technological advances.
Kenneth Fontánez Mora
Pursuing a PhD in chemistry
Future Goals: to grow and develop myself as a research student and individual.
Project name: Development of high performance Li-S batteries. Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: I am a 3rd year doctoral student working on the development of lithium-sulfide batteries. Throughout my years as an undergraduate I had the opportunity to travel and represent the university where I earned my bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Today my focus is personal and professional development as a research scientist.
Linguo Lu
Master Degree
Future Goals: PH. D Physics and University professor
Project name: Computational design of holy graphene-based cathode materials for Li-CO2 batterie
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: I like reading and doing research.
Cid Marie Calderón Rodriguez
Education: BS student – Interdisciplinary Studies in Natural Sciences.
Future Goals: M.S. or PharmD
Project: Microporous carbon hybrid nanostructure for supercapacitors
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
About me: drawing, crafts, sewing, and pet-lover.
Juan Carlos Vázquez López
Education: BS student – Chemistry
Future Goals: PH.D
Project: Catalytic efficiency and recoverability of different iron sources in the production of biofuel from microalgae via hydrothermal liquefaction
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
About me: Video games, Poetry, Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry
René Alberto Purcell Wiltz
Environmental Sciences
Scientist/Researcher
Project: Metabolome analysis of Amaranthus grown on different growth mediums, a promising food and medicinal crop for possible inclusion on long-term space travel and occupation.
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInt
About me: I have always had a keen interest in living organisms. Whether it is plants or animals I have persistently felt a deep connection towards these topics
Christian O. Plaza-Rivera
Major / Minor: Physics / Applied Mathematics
Future Goals: PhD in Applied Physics
Project: Design and Development of High-Performance Batteries for Space Exploration Missions
Research Program: PR-SPRInT (NASA)
About me: Basketball, Martial Arts, Photography, Graphic Arts, Astronomy, and Material Science.
Roberto J. Herrera
Biology
Goal:PhD
Project: Computational Elucidation of the Molecular Structure of an Arsenic Binding Aptamer in Water
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
About me: I enjoy anime, video games and playing pickup basketball.
Alondra S. Rodríguez-Rolón
Degree: B.S. in Chemistry
Project Name: Developing of photochemical and hydrophilic layer membrane as a multifunctional material
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
Future goal: Work as a project manager at NASA Research Center
About me: Enjoy going to the beach, dancing, traveling, and photography. I love the tropical life.
Miguel A. Sepúlveda Pagán
BS Chemistry
Future Goals: MS
Project name: Energetics and Molecular Structure Computations of Polyamide and Polysulfone Interacting with Urea or 1-Cyclohexylpipedrine in Water
Research Program: PR-SPRInT (NASA)
About me: Keen interest in sports cars, I also enjoy a lot going to the beach
Jorge G. Padilla Zayas
Biology – Cellular and molecular
Future Goals: MD
Project: Biomaterial development for bone tissue regeneration
Research Program: PR-SPRInT (NASA)
About me: plastic arts, craft brewing, kitesurfing
Michael Martínez Torres
Electric Engineering
Future Goals: PhD
Project: Unmanned Systems for Environmental Data Compilation
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
About me: Reading, Programming, Robotics, and Music
Nischal Oli
Project Name: Energy storage materials research in SPECLAB
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
Future goal: To develop the High-Performance energy storage battery
About me: Hobbies:
Enjoy reading and love gardening. Flowers symbolize both love and peace. I love sports activities
José Fernando Flórez Gómez
Program: Ph.D. in Chemical Physics
Project: Nanomaterial for Anodes with application in Lithium-Ion Batteries
About me: Scientific Computing and Material Science are my principal research areas. As a hobby playing the guitar is my favorite one. I also practice Soccer, Swimming, CrossFit, and Running.
Frank A. Martínez Henríquez
Physics Major
Future Goals: Undergraduate Major in Physics and Graduate Studies in Physics
Project: Lithium-ion Batteries
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
About me: art, music, swimming and animal lover.
Justin Borrero
Chemical Engineering
Future Goals: Complete Masters Degree and Continue on Doctorate Studies
Project: Support Ni and Ni-Alloy Catalyst for CO2 Methanation
Research Program: PR-SPRInT (NASA)
About Me: I am a social person with a desire to adventure and whenever I am not in the lab and studying, I am working on my art and music.
Valerio Dorvilien
M. Sc
Future Goals: Graduate by July 2022 About me: I am a Ph. D. candidate in the Physical Chemistry Program.
My plan is to graduate this upcoming July 2022
Project: ELECTRODES FOR LITHIUM AND NON-LITHIUM ION BATTERIES (LIB AND NLIB)
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About Me: I am a social person with a desire to adventure and whenever I am not in the lab and studying, I am working on my art and music.
Yanizbeth Yambó Chévere
Chemistry
Future Goals: MD/PhD
Project name: Preparation and characterization of nano-fibrous membrane for water applications
Research Program: PR-SPRInT (NASA)
About me: Passion for sports and animal
Berny Rafael Bravo Sierra
Computer Engineering
Future Goals: PhD
Project: Unmanned Systems for Environmental Data Compilation
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInT
About me: Reading, Programming and Music
Jesus E. Melendez Gil
Chemical Engineering
Future Goals: PhD
Project name: Support Ni and Ni-Alloy Catalyst for CO2 Methanation
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: Just a curious person with a passion for learning, teaching and enjoying the wonders of the universe.
Diana M. Aponte
Chemical Engineering
Future Goals: PhD
Project name: Development of Ni-Based Heterogeneous Catalysts for Low-Temperature CO2 methanation.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: I enjoy gardening and watching sports
Erick J. Mendez Rios
Chemical Engineering
Future Goals: Work as Process engineer and later Pursue Graduate Studies
Project name: “Silicoaluminophosphate/Carbon Porous Hierarchical Composites for Superior Carbon Dioxide Removal from Humid Air in Spacecrafts”
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: In summary I am a foodie, love coffee and enjoy weightlifting.
Liz N. Santiago Martoral
PhD in Chemistry
Project: Lyotropic Liquid Crystals as enzyme host for selective degradations in aqueous molecular separations.
Research Program: NASA PR-SPRInt
Future goals: I aspire to work for the U.S. government to help mitigate environmental problems and educate about sustainable communities.
About me: My research is focused on developing an integral system using Lyotropic Liquid Crystals (LLC) as host for enzymes to explore the functionalization of water remediation membranes. The goal is to design a material that can provide a critical understanding of mass transport, selective molecule rejection, and serve as an energy source during osmotically driven processes.
Adrialis M. Figueroa Sánchez
Ciencias Interdisciplinarias
Future Goals: PhD
Project: Implementation of Lyotropic Liquid Crystals for the functionalization of Bio-reactive Forward Osmosis Membranes.
Research Program: PR-SPRInT (NASA)
About me: enjoy reading and visiting different places
Aleshka Wilenis Arce García
Bachelor’s in Chemistry Future Goals: Become a Doctor in Medicine
Project name: Tuning the immiscibility and toxicity of tertiary amines by changing their functional groups: A DFT Computations.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: Paint on canvas
Jared J. Rivera Otero
Chemistry
Future Goals: PhD
Project name: Photocatalytic Memebranes for Wastewater Reclamation and Fouling Prevention
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: Enjoy sports and gardening
Orlando Andrés Conde Del Moral
Third Year Chemistry Undergraduate Student
Future Goals: PhD
Project name: Development of a Hydrophilic Zwitterionic Membrane for Water Reclamation
Research Program: NASA MIRO PR-SPRInT
About me: I enjoy playing soccer and going on road trips.
Mariangeline Merced Pérez
BA in Computer Engineering
Project name: Unmanned Systems for Environmental Data Compilation.
Future Goals: My long-term goal is to gain experience and grow within the industry. I want to side with a company in which I can develop my knowledge and contribute my skills to assist the company’s success.
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT About me: After graduating high school with a Fashion Design title I decided to challenge myself and pursue a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering at Universidad Ana G. Mendez, Recinto Gurabo where I am currently a senior student. I fell in love with programming in a program I took during the summer of my senior year of high school from which I had the opportunity to do basic programming on LEGO Mindstorms. From then on, I have been shown multiple applications of my field and how useful it is in so many aspects. I have research experience from which I have acquired knowledge in subjects such as machine learning. I want to continue studying this field and obtain a doctor’s degree in computational neuroscience, as I am fascinated by the brain, and I would like to approach it in a programming way.
Fabiola A. Fonseca Rivera
Computer Engineering
Future Goals: Ph.D. and Entrepreneurship
Project name: Unmanned Systems for Environmental Data Compilation
Research Program: NASA MIRO: PR-SPRInT
About me: Piano, CrossFit, and reading
