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.

Mason Mahaffey

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

B.S. Georgia Institute of Technology, Honors Program – Electrical Engineering (2019)

Mason is a PhD student in the Holman Group (and close friend of the Rolston Group), where he focuses on improving and understanding solar cells using the quantified photoluminescence tool he co-developed. A jack-of-all-trades, you can find him making perovskite solar cells, acting as the resident coding expert, and using his tool on Si, CdTe, PVK, and III-V technologies. He’s been intent on working on renewables since high school and throughout his time at Georgia Tech, where he was a part of Georgia Tech Solar Racing. Outside of the lab, you can find him playing tennis, making baked goods, or on-stage as part of “The Callback” improv team.

 

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

Kay Bakshi

Kayshavi (Kay) Bakshi ([email protected])
Barrett the Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering, Spanish Linguistics
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy (SEMTE)

Kay joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2022 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. Her work involves testing perovskite films to find its mechanical properties. Outside of the lab, Kay loves being creative, whether that’s in the kitchen, on canvas, or anywhere in between.

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.

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.

Caetano Chequer

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

Caetano joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2024 to pursue a project for his Honors Thesis. His research involves applying pressure on perovskite thin films and examining its impacts on the stress experienced by the films through X-ray diffraction characterization. Outside of the lab, Caetano enjoys working out, playing tennis, watching TV shows, and hanging out with friends.

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.

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.

Avijit Jutla

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

Avijit joined the Rolston lab in Summer 2024 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) and the Grand Challenges Scholars Program (GCSP). His research focuses on improving solid-state electrolytes to catalyze the development of safer and better batteries, and he aspires to one day contribute to a major scientific breakthrough that positively impacts the world. Outside the lab, Avijit enjoys being involved in EPICS at ASU, nerding out about math and physics, and playing video games.

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).

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.

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.

Seth Storino

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

Seth joined the Rolston Lab in Spring 2023. He researches the adverse effects of lithium carbonate in LLZTO solid-state electrolytes to improve interfacial mechanical and ionic properties for high performance solid-state batteries. Outside of the lab, Seth enjoys playing tennis, cooking, hiking, and going to 70s/90s rock concerts as well as country music festivals.

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

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.

Alumni

Gabriel Adams

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

Gabe joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2022 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. His work involves testing new materials to be used as solid state electrolytes for batteries. Outside of the lab, Gabe loves being outdoors and is a member of the ASU triathlon club.

Adianne Alamban

Adianne Alamban ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

Adianne’s research focuses on bandgap tuning in semi-transparent perovskite materials for use in building-integrated PVs. She is excited to work toward creating a more equitable and sustainable future through accessible, renewable energy. In her spare time, she enjoys trying new recipes, listening to music, and watching nature documentaries.

Bella Bozzo

Bella Bozzo ([email protected])
Barrett the Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

Bella joined the Rolston Lab in Summer 2023 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. She researches the mechanical and optoelectronic properties of perovskite films with the aim of broadening the use of renewable energy. She has worked in various labs on campus and enjoys exploring different science topics. Outside the lab, Bella enjoys sports, being outside, and watching sketch comedy.

Erin Burgard

Erin Burgard ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Environmental Engineering
School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment (SEBE)

Erin joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2022 after looking for an opportunity to address her curiosity in solar energy. She researches aspects of thin film stress under operational conditions in order to further develop the understanding, and therefore reliability, of perovskite material. Outside of the lab, Erin enjoys staying busy with music, yoga, keeping up her Spanish, and running a business where she paints and sells handmade cards.

Jacob Burrows

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

Jacob joined the Rolston Lab in Spring 2023. He is working on scalable plasma-assisted spray-coating processes of polymer and ceramic materials to improve the interface stability and ionic conductivity of thin-film solid-state electrolytes. Outside of the lab in his spare time, he enjoys scuba diving, computers, and watching sci-fi and adventure movies.

Kevin Bush

Founder/CEO, Molten Industries and Co-founder, Swift Solar ([email protected])

Ph.D. Stanford University, Materials Science and Engineering (2018)
B.E. Vanderbilt University, Mechanical Engineering (2014)

Kevin is extremely bright in many ways except for his decision to be a Seattle sports fan. In addition to founding multiple companies, Kevin designed and built biogas digestion systems, a remote-controlled amphibious vehicle, a biodiesel-powered ramjet engine, and a 10-foot rocket. As an NSF PhD Fellow, he led the development of record-efficiency perovskite-on-silicon tandems and assisted in the fabrication of the first all-perovskite tandems. He was recently named a Forbes 30 Under 30 Fellow in Energy and spends his free time split among listening to metal, reading textbooks, coming up with creative ab workouts, cooking sous vide style, and thinking about how to catalyze the energy revolution to combat climate change.

Carsen Cartledge

Carsen Cartledge ([email protected])
Barrett the Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy (SEMTE)

Carsen joined the Rolston Lab in Summer of 2022 through ASU’s Summer Undergraduate Research Initiative (SURI). Her work focuses on understanding novel additives’ roles in improving the processing and scalability of perovskite thin films used in solar cells. Outside of the lab Carsen loves hiking and is involved in the SAE Formula 1 Aero Manufacturing Team on campus.

Madi Dodd

Madi Dodd ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
Brown University School of Engineering

Madi joined the Rolston Lab in Summer of 2023 as an opportunity to gain research experience in solar energy devices and materials. She researches various perovskite compounds with the goal of improving the operational stability and processing of mixed metal halide perovskite solar cells, with hopes to upscale these solar cells. At Brown, Madi works in the Pennel Lab for Environmental Engineering where she assists with research projects pertaining to environmental health and chemical remediation in order to quantify a variety of PFOS chemicals and phthalates in household dust samples. Outside of the lab, Madi enjoys hiking, traveling, reading, and participates in the Brown University chapter of the Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers.

Rodrigo Estrada Torrejon

Rodrigo Estrada Torrejon ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Rodrigo joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2022 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program, to explore his interest in energy production and semiconductor materials. His work will focus on understanding the change in optical and electrical properties of different types of perovskite cells under thermal cycling. Outside of the lab, Rodrigo enjoys calisthenics, skiing, and reading sci-fi and classic literature.

Berrak Gokce

Berrak Gokce ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

Berrak Joined the Rolston Lab in Spring 2023 as a volunteer and is going to continue as a part of the Grand Challenges Scholar Program (GCSP) and the SURI Program. She is working to understand the effects of film stress/strain in perovskites and how it influences ionic and mechanical properties through working with the PAIOS and fracture testing systems. Outside of lab and school she likes spending time outside, snowboarding, and playing instruments.

Po-Heng (Peter) Ho

Po-Heng Ho (Peter) ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Peter joined the Rolston Lab in Summer 2023 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program, to explore his interest in Solid state battery and semiconductor materials. His work focuses on Open Air Plasma sintering of Lithium Lanthanum Titanate (LLTO) Solid Electrolytes to improve ionic conductivity. Outside of the lab, Peter enjoys music, photography, and reading history, politics and aesthetic literature.

David Machbitz

David Machbitz ([email protected])
Barrett the Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

David joined the Rolston Lab in the spring of 2023 on a project that will culminate in an Honors Thesis. His research is focused on characterizing the thermomechanical properties of perovskite thin film materials for solar energy applications through theoretical ANSYS simulations and experimental validation. Outside of the lab, David is a member of the ASU Taekwondo team and spends his time reading and hiking.

Alex McWatters

Alexandra (Alex) McWatters ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

Alex joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2023 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. Her research focuses on understanding how the chemomechanics (the mechanical, electrical and material properties) of solid-state battery thin film energy devices react under stresses in order to better understand their future manufacturing capabilities. Her interest for this lab stems from her passion for sustainability and its connection to renewable energy and the built environment. Outside of the lab, Alex enjoys listening to music, watching videos about space and traveling with friends and family.

Suyog Misra

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

Suyog joined the Rolston Lab in Summer 2023 as a volunteer to explore his interest in data analysis in the field of Electrical Engineering. He is currently working on predicting the State of Health and Remaining Useful Life for second life batteries using ML. Outside the lab, Suyog is a travel-buff, loves to hike, enjoys photography, rock climbing, playing badminton and playing instruments.

Hanson Nguyen

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

Hanson joined the Rolston Lab in the Spring 2023 as a volunteer and will continue through the FURI program and GCSP. He is working to understand various processing techniques and their optical and electrical effects on high bandgap inorganic perovskites with the hopes that his work makes an impact by pushing solar applications for a more sustainable future. In his free time, he enjoys his hobby in electronics, listening to absurd records, and speedrunning Sudokus.

Keven Sepulveda

Keven Sepulveda ([email protected])
Graduate Student in Biomedical EngineeringSchool of Biological and Health Solutions (SBHSE)BSE Biomedical Engineering, Arizona State University (2023)

Keven joined the Rolston Lab in the Summer of 2023 as part of ASU’s Summer Undergraduate Research Initiative (SURI) program. Despite his major and background, he loves to step outside of his comfort zone to learn and pick up new skills from vast walks of life. His work in the lab focuses on understanding and analyzing the ionic conductivity for thin film renewable batteries and solid state electrolytes. Whenever he has free time, Keven tends to be an avid reader, a music enthusiast, enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, and is a casual photographer.

Aaron Sharpe

Truman Fellow, Sandia National Laboratory ([email protected])

Ph.D. Stanford University, Applied Physics (2020)
B.S. Rice University, Applied Physics (2014)

Aaron is not your average physicist. As an NSF and Ford PhD Fellow, Aaron made a monumental discovery of ferromagnetic behavior in twisted bilayer graphene, a result which has been cited over 1,000 times since publication in 2019. He also earned the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship and the Stanford EDGE-STEM Fellowship. However, more than any of this, Aaron is a builder. He has developed unique tools for manipulating and controlling 2D materials at the atomic scale and has taken an affinity for 3D printing. He has helped multiple groups at Stanford and ASU in addressing research problems by designing and building custom parts for experimental setups. In his free time, he developed a practical lab skills class at Stanford, reached Global Elite status in CounterStrike Go, and became a wonderful dog parent to his adorable Australian shepherd, Roxy.

Personal homepage: https://www.aaronsharpe.science/

Chanese Smith

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

Chanese joined the Rolston Lab in Summer 2023 as a participant in the Nanotechnology Collaborative Infrastructure Southwest Research Experience for Undergraduates. Her research involves perovskite characterization, observing its degradation and validation of stress responses under in situ testing conditions. In her free time she enjoys reading, riding her bike and gardening.

Sanskar Srivastava

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

Sanskar began volunteering in the Rolston lab in the fall of 2023 and will remain a part of the Grand Challenges Scholar Program (GCSP) and the FURI program. He is using machine vision to assess perovskite faults and to assist his colleagues in determining how to enhance the perovskite. He likes spending time outside, playing video games, and traveling to new places with family and friends when he is not in the lab or at school. He is also vice of a TEDx club at ASU.

Isak Tang

Isak Tang ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Materials Science and Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering (graduating in 2025)

Isak investigates potential materials of thin-film solid-state electrolytes, in hopes of developing material for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. His long-standing interest in materials science and chemistry stems from inspiration from his science teachers and early laboratory experiences. His hobbies include biking, humanities reading, and stamp collecting.

Favian Tippin

Favian Tippin ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics
Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering

Favian researches the effect of temperature on the ion concentration, mobility, and conductivity in perovskite PV cells. The goal is to further characterize the behavior of the emerging solar cell technology for a more safe and sustainable future. In his free time, he enjoys working out and playing basketball at his local gym while spending time with family and friends.

Benjamin Tung

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

After joining the lab in Summer 2023, Benjamin is looking to perform research in improving the operational stability of Formamidinium-based perovskites through the use of different additives and processing methods. In his spare time, he enjoys writing stories (that he’s too embarrassed to show), playing geography trivia quizzes (seriously, who does that?) and destroying people at Mario Kart (at least, he would like to).

Adam Westmoreland

Adam Westmoreland ([email protected])
Barrett the Honors College
Undergraduate Student in Chemical Engineering
School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy (SEMTE)

Adam joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2023 to complete an honors thesis on the topic of flexible perovskite solar module characterization for lunar applications. He has passion for advancements in renewable energy capabilities and aspires to have a role in scaling these technologies across the globe and beyond. Outside of the lab, he enjoys adventuring while practicing outdoor photography, learning how to drum, and recreationally sporting with friends.

Selva Seelan Margoschis

Selva Seelan Margoschis ([email protected])
Graduate Student in Electrical Engineering
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

B.E. Electronics and Communication Engineering, Anna University-Chennai (2020)

Selva’s research focuses on the electrical characterization of battery and conductivity materials with the goal of developing high-efficiency batteries and power electronics for electric vehicles. He wants to fulfill his duty in the movement towards a more sustainable world through electrical engineering. Outside of the lab, he enjoys listening to music, traveling and MMA.

Vishnu Sooraj

Vishnu Sooraj ([email protected])
Graduate Student in Industrial Engineering
School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence (SCAI)
B-Tech, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Mechatronics Engineering (2019)

Vishnu joined the Rolston Lab in Spring 2023- his work involves creating, and identifying optimal laser etching patters for scalable perovskite solar cells. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing sports, cooking and photography. He aspires to one day become part of a team that focuses on ADAS Systems and Self Driving Cars.

Zachary White

Zachary White ([email protected])
Undergraduate Student in Electrical Engineering and Physics
School for Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)

Zach joined the Rolston Lab in Fall 2022 as part of the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program. His work involves developing and characterizing laser etching patterns for scalable perovskite solar cells. Outside of the lab, Zach enjoys competing in Olympic-Weightlifting and spending time in nature.

Abdallah Yousef M. Ali

Abdallah Yousef M. Ali ([email protected])
Postdoctoral Researcher (Google Scholar)
School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering (ECEE)
Ph.D., Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology, Chemical Engineering (2022)
M.Sc., Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology, Chemical Engineering (2019)
B.S., Aswan University, Mechanical Engineering (2013)

Abdallah’s research work in Rolston Lab focuses on thermomechanical and durability analyses of PV solar modules and emerging perovskite solar cells for solar energy applications by means of numerical ANSYS simulations. Outside of work, Abdallah finds enjoyment in playing and watching soccer and tennis, as well as spending quality time with friends and family.