Each year Research in the Rotunda at the Wisconsin Capitol features undergraduate research at the 13 Universities of Wisconsin. Six Freshwater Collaborative-funded projects were highlighted, including collaborative research that involves students and faculty from UW-Stevens Point and UW-Madison. Several students have been trained on PFAS research methods, including Ben Zobel who presented his research at Research in the Rotunda.
Poster Title: Enhanced Adsorption of Short-Chain PFAS (PFBS) on Metal-Impregnated Activated Carbon
Student: Ben Zobel, UW-Stevens Point, Paper Science and Chemical Engineering major
Expected Graduation Date: May 2026
Mentor: Seyed Amirfakhri
Summarize the research and your role.
I participated in lab work where I was in charge of weighing samples and following a procedure. The research talks about how different metals, particle size, and stirring speed impact adsorption capacity of activated carbon.
What skills did you learn?
I learned several useful skills. I had the opportunity to lead a small team of students to present research and write a review article, which helped develop leadership skills. My communication skills were enhanced by discussing complex topics with nonacademic professionals.
What was your favorite part about this experience? What was the most challenging?
My favorite part is reinforcing knowledge I learned in school with my research. For instance, in mass transfer classes I already had a strong understanding of adsorption and absorption processes by doing PFAS research and writing a review article. The most challenging thing has been finding time to do research. My school load has increased since I started doing research, so finding the balance has been difficult.
What opportunities have you had because of this research?
I have had some cool opportunities from doing research. I went to a water conference in Wisconsin Dells last year, and I had the opportunity to go to Madison to present at Research in the Rotunda.
What do you plan to do after graduation? How will this experience benefit your career plans?
I am going to work as a process engineer at Shawano Specialty Paper in Shawano, Wisc. This experience has made me think more about wastewater treatment processes. A potential career path for me could be working as a process engineer at a wastewater treatment plant.