Academics / PhD Program / Ph.D. Student SpotlightPh.D. Student Spotlight
Haklae Lee
The key to a successful Ph.D., according to fifth year student Haklae Lee, is the ability to enjoy one's research. From his very first project to now, Haklae still finds the work exciting and even fun.
1. Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Busan, South Korea.
2. Where did you get your undergraduate degree, and what was your major? Do you have an MS?
I earned both my undergraduate and master’s degrees in Environmental Engineering from Pusan National University, located in my hometown.
3. What attracted you to engineering?
While I was quite undecided about what I particularly wanted to do for my career path, I have always been interested in math and science in high school. My passion for problem-solving along with my desire for a practical profession led me to pursue a career in engineering, particularly environmental engineering.
4. What attracted you to pursue a Ph.D. in your specialty area?
I thoroughly enjoyed my undergraduate and master’s research experience in environmental nanotechnology and photochemistry. I was fortunate to find fun and genuine excitement in my very first research project. While failures were sometimes frustrating, the sense of accomplishment from small discoveries was truly rewarding and solidified my determination to pursue a PhD and continue my research journey.
5. How do you explain your thesis research to a non-scientist?
I design and engineer nano-sized (10-9 meter length scale) reactors for emerging water pollutant degradation. The use of nanomaterials has become a rapidly advancing approach for environmental remediation, but the ongoing emergence of highly oxidation-resistant micropollutants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are increasing the need for a paradigm shift in water treatment processes. The nanoreactor I developed tackles this challenge by engineering the ‘nanoconfinement effect’, a unique opportunity inaccessible by general bulk-phase nanomaterials. In particular, the precisely controlled nanoconfinement of plasmonic nanoparticles can generate highly reactive reducing species, i.e. hydrated electrons, capable of breaking even the strong C–F bond in PFAS. My ultimate goal is to develop plasmon-mediated advanced reduction processes (PARPs), a new water treatment technology for efficient and more sustainable remediation of extremely recalcitrant micropollutants, including PFAS and other oxidation-resistant compounds.
6. What attracted you to NU?
The primary reasons that attracted me to NU were its cutting-edge infrastructure for engineering research and strong multidisciplinary research environment, as my interests lie at the intersection of environmental engineering and other fields. I also experienced a highly responsive and welcoming atmosphere during the admission process, which made me believe that the NU CEE department offers a student-supportive environment. Of course, the vibrant life of Evanston and Chicago adds to its appeal.
7. What has been the highlight of your time at NU and CEE?
The highlight of my experience at NU was the opportunity to learn and utilize state-of-the-art instruments available at various Northwestern research centers such as NUANCE and IMSERC. These facilities have been playing a crucial role in conducting my research, particularly in characterizing materials at the nanoscale and understanding chemical reactions at the molecular level. The facility staff and training programs are highly professional and supportive, and having all the equipment in the Tech makes things much more convenient.
8. What has been the most challenging aspect of your graduate school experience?
The most challenging aspect of my PhD study at NU was to make myself motivated to deeply dive into my research and find fun in it. Throughout my research experience, I learned that the more I enjoy my research, the better it becomes. I truly appreciate the current research environment and guidance of my encouraging and supportive PI.
9. Can you tell us about your experience being mentored or mentoring others?
By mentoring an undergraduate student researcher on my project, I noticed that they encounter the same challenges I had faced as a graduate student researcher. This experience made me realize the importance of listening rather than imposing my own perspective. I also came to understand that guiding someone through their struggles as a mentor is not easy.
10. What are your interests or hobbies outside of your research?
Outside of research, I enjoy cooking. Before coming to the U.S., I had no experience with cooking at all. I quickly realized that cooking at home is essential for saving money here, and I started learning through YouTube and found it incredibly enjoyable.