Megan Davis
- CU BOULDER
Project Summary:
This project explores how spiropyran molecules (a type of photo-switchable dopant) respond to changes in pH and polarity when attached to surfaces using scanning probe microscopy (SPM) techniques to monitor these molecular changes in real time and at the nanoscale.
CU Boulder Supervisor: Mike Toney
IRES Supervisor: Stefan Hecht
Biography:
I'm an undergraduate student at the University of Colorado Boulder studying Mechanical Engineering, with plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering. I’m especially interested in the material science perspective in enabling sustainable technologies, and I’m passionate about applying engineering solutions to real-world challenges in clean energy and environmental impact.
My academic journey has been shaped by hands-on engineering projects and research on polymer materials and energy systems. One of the highlights of my undergraduate experience has been designing and manufacturing a gravity battery, a project that brought together mechanical design, prototyping, and systems thinking to explore accessible, low-cost energy storage. In addition, I’ve conducted research on polymer characterization for use in organic solar cells, presenting findings on how solvent choice influences aggregation behavior and performance in photovoltaic applications.
These experiences have deepened my interest in the intersection of materials science and renewable energy. I’m particularly excited by the battery space and the opportunity to improve energy storage systems through materials innovation, making them more efficient, scalable, and environmentally responsible. As I prepare to travel abroad to Berlin, I look forward to expanding my research experience on an international level and gaining exposure to advanced materials characterization techniques. I see this as a valuable opportunity to grow both technically and personally, and to build a broader foundation for graduate research.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue learning through interdisciplinary collaboration, combining engineering, experimentation, and creativity to help develop the next generation of sustainable energy technologies.