People

Faculty

Nick Rolston

Nick Rolston ([email protected])
Assistant Professor, School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Graduate Faculty in Materials Science
Graduate Faculty in Chemical Engineering

Ph.D. Stanford University, Applied Physics (2020)
B.S. University of Iowa, Physics and Mathematics (2014)

Nick researches in the area of renewable energy with the goal of a sustainable future. He developed a love for teaching and mentoring from the educational priorities instilled by his immigrant mother and bookworm father. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing basketball, hiking, and engaging in reckless food challenges. He aspires to one day have Devin Booker’s jump shot, Alex Honnold’s adventurous spirit, and Joey Chestnut’s stomach capacity.

Nick is the recipient of the 2023 Inorganics Young Investigator Award, a 2023 Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) featured mentor, and a recipient of the 2022 Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Award.

Graduate students

Sajia Afrin

Sajia Afrin ([email protected])
Graduate Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)
MBA, BRAC University, Dhaka (2009)
B.S , Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka (2005)

Sajia joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2023. Her research interest focuses on the quantification and control of ion migration in halide perovskite cells for stable operation. She has previously worked in the Oil and Gas Industry for more than four years. Outside of the lab, Sajia enjoys travelling, music and spending time with friends and family.

Muneeza Ahmad

Muneeza Ahmad ([email protected])
PhD Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy (SEMTE)

M.S. Energy Systems Engineering, NUST (2021)
B.Sc. (Hons) Electronics, GCU Lahore (2016)

Muneeza is a Fulbright scholar from Pakistan and has worked on perovskite thin films for her Master’s thesis. Her research interests lie in the stability of wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells for tandem applications, and she plans to explore different compositions and additives to find the most stable combination. During her free time, she likes to read (indoors and outdoors) and has a personal record of finishing 75 books in one year.

Marco Casareto

Marco Casareto ([email protected])
PhD Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering of Mattery, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

B.S. University of Maryland, Materials Science and Engineering (2023)

Marco is passionate about the application of renewable energy and advanced energy storage systems to aid in the transition to green technologies. He is interested in how largescale processing of perovskite solar cells affects degradation mechanisms in devices. In his free time, he loves being outdoors, whether it be rock climbing, skiing, or hiking, as well as cooking and reading.

Muzhi (Charles) Li

Muzhi (Charles) Li ([email protected])
PhD Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy (SEMTE)

B.Sc. Shanghai University of Electric Power, Applied Physics (2020)

Muzhi concentrates on processing perovskite in open-air with scalable techniques, which is an essential path for large-scale perovskite solar cell production. He brings his goal overseas to fabricate perovskite solar panels that can be commercialized and dedicates himself to making it come true in the near future. When it comes to how to spend leisure time, playing sports in Sun Devil fitness center is always his first choice. His perseverance and passion for research and sports originate from his supportive parents who are his close friends at the same time.

Harshitha Marikundam

Harshitha Marikundam ([email protected])
Graduate student in Computer Engineering (Electrical Engineering)
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)
B.Tech. Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad, India (2023)

Harshitha’s current research work is on BatteryML, developing a Machine Learning model to predict the health of a battery. She is passionate about renewable energy and her goal is to pursue research in the semiconductor industry to tackle environmental issues in the electronic sector. Her previous experience was on Climatology of Africa which induced her interest in pursuing research. In her spare time, you will find her binging movies, listening to music and travelling.

Vineeth Penukula

Saivineeth Penukula ([email protected])
PhD Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

M.E. Microelectronics, BITS Pilani, Hyderabad (2021)
B.E. Electronics and Communication Engineering, CBIT Hyderabad (2018)

Vineeth’s research work focuses on mechanical characterization, and understanding and controlling of ion migration in halide perovskites. His motivation lies in working towards a sustainable future by improving the reliability of renewable energy materials. Outside of the lab, Vineeth enjoys watching movies, and he loves to watch and play cricket anytime of the day.

Abhijit Prekash

Abhijit Prekash ([email protected])
PhD student in Mechanical Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)
M.S. Mechanical Engineering, ASU (2024)
B.S. Mechanical Engineering, PES University (2021)

Abhijit’s research delves into the application of cohesive zone modeling through finite element analysis using Abaqus, aiming to unravel the complexities of delamination in perovskite solar cells during heat treatment. By addressing these challenges, his work seeks to significantly improve the efficiency and longevity of these cutting-edge materials, driving forward the development of sustainable energy solutions. Beyond the lab, Abhijit channels his creativity into photography, and expresses his artistic side with intricate pencil shadings. He’s also an avid UFC fan, finding excitement in the sport’s strategy and intensity.

Mohammed Sahal

Mohammed Sahal ([email protected]) – Google Scholar link
PhD Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy (SEMTE)

M.S. Arizona State University, Materials Science and Engineering (2020)
M.Tech. NIT Calicut, Materials Science and Technology (2014)
B.Tech. Pondicherry University, Mechanical Engineering (2011)

Sahal’s research focuses on solid state materials science, with the goal of developing future high-efficiency batteries. He is passionate about materials science because he believes that advances in the field will significantly accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future. In his spare time, he enjoys watching inspirational movies, spending time in nature, and appreciating art.
Awards: Outstanding Graduate Student Oral Presentation, 2020 Annual Meeting of the APS Four Corners Section

Undergraduate students

Zoe Bell

Zoe Bell ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering

Zoe joined the Rolston Lab in Summer 2024 through the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program. Her research involves the structure-property relationship for CsPbX3 inorganic metal halide perovskites. In her free time, Zoe enjoys teaching aerial hammock classes, attending comedy shows, and watching horror movies.

Eduardo Beltran

Eduardo Beltran ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Astronautical Engineering
School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE)

Eduardo is currently researching methods to develop a suitable perovskite that can efficiently power electronics with solar cells. He strives to promote sustainability with a focus in energy and astronautical engineering, influenced by his electrical engineer brother, and mentor Dr. Rolston. Other than his ambition of sustainability, he loves playing video-games, soccer, loves weight-lifting, and especially loves his biggest role model, Spider-man. Eduardo longs to explore the unknown, even if he makes reckless, yet fun, decisions.

Clara Chaves Azevedo

Clara Chaves Azevedo ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Civil Engineering (Sustainable Engineering) (BSE)
School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment (SSEBE)

Clara joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2023. Her work focuses on how to make perovskite windows more sustainable by trying new solvents and lead-free materials. She is looking forward
to working on creating environmental solutions. Outside of the laboratory she enjoys watching movies, hanging out with friends and listening to music.

Sindhu Dhulipala

Sindhu Dhulipala ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Computer Science
School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence (SCAI)

Sindhu joined the Rolston Lab in the Summer of 2024. Her research focuses on utilizing a tool called BatteryML to analyze li-ion charge cycle data and develop a machine learning model for determining their state of health. She is passionate about using machine learning to address global challenges and create advancements in healthcare and environmental sustainability. Outside of the lab, Sindhu enjoys dancing, listening to music, and exploring new cafes.

Erin Diadem Mongen

Erin Diadem Mongen ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Chemical Engineering (BSE)
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)
LinkedIn

Since Spring 2025, Erin has been conducting research in the Rolston Lab, focusing on encapsulation techniques for perovskite solar cells (PSC) to enhance their underwater lifespan for future commercial applications. Her goal is to advance PSC applications as sustainable energy sources, driven by her vision of promoting sustainability through green energy.
She currently serves as the Research and Finance Lead for the Global EPICS project “Indonesia Water Purification for Farmers,” where she leads collaborative efforts between ASU and Indonesian teams to provide sustainable water supplies for farmers, thereby cementing her commitment to sustainability across various resources. Outside the lab, Erin enjoys singing, reading non-fiction, and savoring Korean cuisine.

Nishrey Dubey

Nishrey Dubey ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering
School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering (SBHSE)

Nishrey Joined the Rolston lab in the Summer of 2025 as a part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI). His research investigates the thermal and photonic stability of varying perovskite solar cell stack configurations. Outside of the lab, Nishrey is the President of the Jeopardy! Club at ASU and is the prototype engineer for the Indonesia BioPores Engineering Project in Community Service (EPICS) at ASU. Outside of work and school, Nishrey enjoys going to the gym, hanging out with friends, playing videogames, and trying new cuisines.

Awards: 3rd place in the Fall 2024 SUD Innovation Challenge presented by Principled Innovation Academy.

Olneya Fong


Olneya Fong
([email protected])
Barrett, The Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Chemistry
School of Molecular Sciences (SMS)

Associate in Science (AS), Phoenix College (2023)
Associate in Arts (AA), Phoenix College (2023)

Olneya investigates the effects of open-air plasma treatment on the synthesis of LLZO, a promising solid electrolyte for solid-state batteries. She joined the Rolston Lab in Spring 2025 and is passionate about advancing energy storage technologies to support the transition to renewable energy. In her free time, Olneya enjoys playing piano, playing golf, and spending time with family & friends. She is also an avid Star Wars fan!

Bernardo Geissmann

Bernardo Geissmann ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering, Spanish Linguistics
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy (SEMTE)

Bernardo has always been passionate about renewable energy and the pursuit of a
sustainable future. Bernardo joined the lab in Spring 2025. With a deep love for
technology and innovation, he is conducting research in the scalability of perovskite solar
cells on glass substrates. His work focuses on exploring the use of natural additives such
as gum or starch to enhance the stability and durability of the cells. Inspired by the
potential of renewable energy solutions to transform the world, Bernardo is excited to
contribute to advancements in this critical field while building on his strong foundation
in mechanical engineering.

Elaine Greer

Elaine Greer ([email protected])
Barrett the Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Elaine joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2024 to pursue a project for her Honors Thesis. Her research involves testing and characterizing solid-state batteries for applications in extreme temperatures. Outside of the lab, Elaine enjoys running, doing puzzles, trying new foods, and collecting smiskis.

Rayna Hylden

Rayna Hylden ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)
Rayna joined Rolston Lab in Summer 2024 as a part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. Her research focuses on stabilizing thin film perovskites to create long lasting sustainable energy sources. She credits her passion for sustainability to growing up hiking and camping, which she continues in her free time alongside drawing and playing guitar.

Shatakshi Iksha

Shatakshi Iksha ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Computer Systems Engineering
Minor in Materials Science and Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Shatakshi joined the Rolston Lab in the Summer of 2024 as part of the FURI (Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative). Her research focuses on studying the properties of perovskites and thin film materials, specifically exploring their potential to enhance drone flight duration. Outside the lab, she enjoys reading, traveling and nurtures a keen interest in experiencing different cultures and their culinary arts.

Nithin Jakrebet

Nithin Jakrebet ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Computer Science
School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence (SCAI)

Nithin joined the research lab in Fall 2023 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. His work involves analyzing impedance data to create a machine learning model for battery degradation. Outside of the lab, Nithin enjoys playing guitar, playing basketball, and lifting.

Hassonil (HJ) Jones

Hassonil Jones (HJ Jones) ([email protected]) – https://www.linkedin.com/in/hassonil-jones-820a2b279/Undergrad Student in Chemical EngineeringSchool for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

HJ’s journey is to pursue a Chemical Engineering Degree with Certification in Mathematical Concepts in Engineering. He continues to apply his strength to enable him to have a lens to explore opportunities in this highly demanded field. He has consistently demonstrated grit, perseverance, and courage by working very hard to do his personal best, and he knows that there is strength in not giving up in adverse conditions. He has earned the ASU Dean’s list for the first year of college and has become a new member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. He focuses his efforts on achieving good grades and persevering through obstacles. He believes when people work hard, they will develop confidence that they will get to where they want to go.

HJ joined the Rolston Lab in the summer of 2023. He has been studying the processing and characterization of solid-state electrolytes using ink-based processing methods alongside Mohammed Sahal, helping him develop future high-efficient batteries.

Samantha Ilic

Samantha (Sam) Ilic ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Sam joined the Rolston Lab in 2025 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI). Her research focuses on researching the use of sustainable biopolymers as encapsulant layers for perovskite solar cells. Outside of the lab, you can find her drawing, playing video games, and up at 3 am with her friends.

Dean’s List, Fall 2024
Dean’s List, Spring 2025

Mollee Kahan

Mollee Kahan ([email protected])
Barrett the Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Mollee joined Rolston Lab in Fall 2024 through the Barrett College Fellows program. Her research involves studying the production
process of CsPbBr3 perovskites. Outside of the lab, Mollee enjoys crocheting, playing lacrosse, and trying new hobbies.

Aditya Kakadia

Aditya Kakadia ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Aditya is to join the Rolston Lab in Spring 2025, where he will focus on advancing the development and characterization of halide-free antiperovskite-based solid-state electrolytes for photochargeable batteries. His research aims to enhance the performance and safety of solar rechargeable batteries by utilizing lithium-rich antiperovskites that offer improved ionic conductivity and stability.

Beyond the lab, Aditya is passionate about renewable energy solutions and strives to contribute to sustainable technologies. He enjoys trekking, cooking, and networking with peers and professionals to learn and share knowledge in the field of energy engineering.

Mia Kineyko

Mia Kineyko ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Chemical Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

Mia joined Rolston lab in Fall 2024 to participate in the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI)
program. Her research utilizes the open-air spray coater to coat ultra thin layers of aluminum oxide for
stable semiconductor packaging. In her free time, Mia enjoys playing tennis, reading science fiction and is involved in the Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society (SAACS).

Isaiah Milkey

Isaiah Milkey ([email protected])
Barrett the Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Computer Science
School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence 
(SCAI)

Isaiah joined the Rolston Lab Summer 2025, under the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. There, he is creating a machine learning model to optimize the parameters of a CsPb(Ix-Brx) perovskite solar cell to make progress towards a more renewable and sustainable future. Outside the lab, he likes to draw, play video games, and pick up new hobbies.

Sierra Monreal

Sierra Monreal ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Aerospace Engineering (Astronautics)
Barrett, The Honors College
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

Sierra joined the Rolston Lab in Summer 2024 through the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program. Her research involves the study of flexible perovskite solar cells for sustainable energy in space applications. She also studies the effects of harsh conditions on solar cells by conducting stress tests. Sierra hopes to one day fabricate durable devices that can withstand rigorous strains in outer space. In her free time, Sierra enjoys yoga, photography, volunteering, and playing with her pet rabbit, Cosmo.

Ahmed Nasr

Ahmed Nasr ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Ahmed joined the Rolston Lab in the Spring of 2025 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. Through his research, he will analyze the effects of space
conditions on the physical and electrical properties of perovskite semiconductors with the goal of developing more effective radiation hardened semiconductors. Outside of the lab, Ahmed
enjoys spending time with his friends and family. He also enjoys training and watching combat sports, weight training, and football.

Hithesh Rai Purushothama

Hithesh Rai Purushothama ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Hithesh Rai joined the Rolston Lab in the Fall of 2022 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI). His work focuses on reducing ionic migration by understanding the electrical characterization of halide perovskites. His vision is to create a safe environment for the upcoming generation. Outside the lab, he is one of the international coalition leaders at ASU, a member of Devil’s Advocate, and Sun devil Rocketry, an intern at USG Tempe, and a team lead for EPICS.

LinkedIn

David Reyes

David Alberto Reyes Valdez ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Management
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy (SEMTE)

David is a sophomore studying mechanical engineering at Arizona State University. Reyes joined the Rolston Lab in the Fall of 2024 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI). His research focuses on developing affordable, sustainable salt-based solid-state electrolyte batteries using innovative open-air processing techniques to improve manufacturing efficiency and battery performance. Outside of the lab, David loves to go to the gym, cook, watch football, and spend time with friends and family, especially Katie!

Sakshi Ritesh Katargamwala

Sakshi Ritesh Katargamwala ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Computer Science
School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence (SCAI)

Sakshi is an undergraduate researcher set to join Professor Nicholas Rolston’s lab in Spring 2025, where she will use machine vision techniques to detect and classify defects in perovskite solar cells. Passionate about renewable energy and sustainability, she aims to improve the efficiency and longevity of solar technology through innovative applications of machine learning. In the lab, she will focus on training advanced image processing models to automate quality control, reducing production waste and enhancing cell performance.

A natural problem-solver, Sakshi is known for her coding expertise in Java, Python, and machine learning frameworks, and has previously developed interactive games and predictive models. Outside of research, she’s often found organizing events with the Indian Student Association, working on her art, or exploring new ways to use tech for sustainable impact.

Mohammed Shaan Nadaf

Mohammed Shaan Nadaf ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Aerospace Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)
LinkedIn

Shaan joined the Rolston Lab in the fall of 2023 with the goal of making space travel more affordable and sustainable, contributing to humanity’s journey toward becoming an interplanetary species. While there is still a long way to go, Shaan believes that small steps and collective contributions will eventually make this vision a reality. Eager to play an essential role in this endeavor, Shaan is focused on exploring innovative solutions for sustainable space technology. Currently, Shaan is working to understand where he can make the most impactful contributions. His work in the lab serves as a stepping stone toward realizing this dream.

Aditi Shrestha

Aditi Shrestha ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Aditi joined the Rolston Lab in Summer 2025 as a part of the FURI program. Her research interests currently lie in Additive Engineering in Perovskite Solar Cells with broader interests in next-generation electronics and renewable energy technologies. Outside of the lab Aditi enjoys crocheting and trying new hobbies.

Aditi has prior research experience in research related to particulate matter and air pollution.

Gursparsh Sodhi

Gursparsh Singh Sodhi ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Computer Science (Software Engineering)
Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering (FSE)

Gursparsh concentrates on utilizing the Python library PyBaMM for simulating battery behavior in different environments and under certain conditions. He also developed an iOS application for a local NGO in Arizona as part of another project, and he created a website for this program. Outside the lab, he likes to play basketball, read, meet new people, and explore random places on campus occasionally at night for no reason.

Patricio Solana Bustamante

Patricio Solana Bustamante ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Patricio joined the lab in fall 2023 as part of the FURI program. His research focuses on the study of battery stability on sodium ion batteries tested at extreme temperatures and varied charge rates. Outside of the lab, Pato enjoys playing volleyball, ping pong, reading any kind of book and trying to learn the piano.

Octavio Tuxtla Garcia

Octavio Tuxtla Garcia ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Octavio joined the Rolston Lab in the Spring of 2025 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. Through his research, he will simulate extreme conditions of space and radiation across various semiconducting perovskite materials with the goal of enhancing the structural and compositional stability of perovskites while additionally gaining a greater understanding of the radiation effects on semiconducting devices. He also hopes to explore new ways of preventing and mitigating radiation-induced ion migration within perovskite materials. Outside of the lab, Octavio enjoys spending time with friends and family and loves watching combat sports. He has aspirations of one day becoming the first person to box in space.

Visiting scholars

Shrinivas Balwadkar

Shrinivas Balwadkar (Shree) ([email protected])
MSc (Research) Additive and Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
The University of Sheffield

Shree joined the Rolston Lab in the Summer of 2023. His research is focused on studying the ion concentration and mobility in perovskite solar cells using Setfos simulation. Shree previously worked on developing Kesterite (CZTS) solar cells using inkjet printing. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing soccer, bouldering and travelling.

Bhumika Bhangale

Bhumika Bhangale ([email protected])
LinkedIn
SURI Intern

Undergraduate Student in Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, Minor in Electrical Engineering
Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (2026)

 

Bhumika researches in the field of materials science with a focus on energy storage and conversion, aiming to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world. She is currently working on a Temperature Dependent EIS study of Li-ion and Na-ion batteries, investigating how impedance characteristics vary with thermal conditions to improve battery performance and reliability. Outside of research, she loves dancing, listening to techno and hip-hop, enjoys exploring new places and cultures, and hitting the badminton court.

She has worked on electrocatalysis for oxygen production during a research internship in Taiwan and currently explores polymer-enhanced stability of perovskites at IIT Bombay.

Asfia Ehsan

Asfia Ehsan ([email protected])
M.Phil. Microelectronics Engineering and Semiconductor Physics
University of the Punjab, Lahore (2020)
B.Sc. (Hons.) Electronics, GCU Lahore (2017)

Asfia joined the Rolston Lab in Summer 2024. Her research focuses on optoelectronic properties of perovskite materials with the aim to develop highly efficient and affordable solar cells, contributing to the advancement of renewable energy technologies. Outside of the lab, she enjoys baking, crocheting toys for her kids and travelling.