Meet the Lab

Current Graduate Students

Taylor Frisch is a Masters student in Biology Chemistry mentored by both Dr. Haiping Cheng and Dr. Yuemei Ye at Lehman College. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Oregon in Chemistry and Mathematics, where he developed an interest in various types of chemistry and biochemistry. His research will focus on combining antibacterial and short-chain PFAS purification technologies for drinking water treatment. Outside of academia, Taylor enjoys reading, trivia, traveling with friends, bartending, and horseback riding. He is also passionate about promoting a safe and open space for LGBTQ+ people in STEM.

Current Undergraduate Students

Dewan Akter is a senior student at Lehman College pursuing a BS in Chemistry. She developed her interest in the field in high school, particularly through an environmental chemistry class. She joined YeEnvLab in October 2023 with funding support from the CIE-Climate Resilience grant. Dewan will learn and work on the project of modified activated carbon (GAC) for enhanced short-chain PFAS removal from drinking water. Beyond her scientific endeavors, Dewan enjoys cooking, reading, and painting. Additionally, she volunteers at animal sanctuaries, demonstrating a holistic approach to personal and community engagement.

Kyana Donovan is an undergraduate student enrolled at Lehman College, she is studying for her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry with a specialized focus on Biochemistry. Kyana joined YeEnvLab in the spring semester of 2024, assisting in developing highly efficient and cost-effective adsorbents tailored for removing short-chain PFAS from drinking water. Outside her studies, Kyana loves music and plays instruments like the violin, cello, saxophone, and piano. She also enjoys traveling, learning languages, writing, and art.

Visiting Students

Saki Morimoto (Toyohashi University), international visiting undergraduate student, 03/2024-05/2024

Izzy Escutia (University of San Francisco), NSF REU summer program undergraduate student, 06/2024-08/2024

ALUMNI

Ashley Vargas (undergraduate student), Lehman College