Through a collaborative research project, three undergraduate students from UW-Stevens Point and a doctoral student from UW-Milwaukee are developing and testing state-of-the-art technologies for addressing PFAS contamination.
The students were hired to work on a three-year grant, Development of a Collaborative Undergraduate Research Experience to Improve Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) Adsorption in Nanoporous Solids. More about the project here.
Here’s what they had to say about their experience so far.
- Brody Berens, UW-Stevens Point, Chemistry Major, Anticipated Graduation May 2026
- Jackson Mikel, UW-Stevens Point, Chemical Engineering Major, Anticipated Graduation, May 2025
- Grace Versnik, UW-Stevens Point, Biochemistry Major, Anticipated Graduation, May 2027
- Wenxin Zhang, UW-Milwaukee, Third-Year PhD Student
What interested you about PFAS research?
Berens: How PFAS interact with metal organic frameworks (MOF-808-xx).
Mikel: The fact that it involved the use of emerging technologies and may have an impact on legislation.
Versnik: I have family in an area that had been previously affected by the high levels of PFAS, so being able to work with and learn about PFAS has allowed me to learn how these chemicals work.
Zhang: I was drawn to this area of study due to the significant environmental and health implications of PFAS contamination. The opportunity to contribute to such a critical field and potentially make a difference is what initially sparked my interest.
What are your responsibilities for this research project?
Berens: I test MOFs to see how well they adsorb different kinds of PFAS via a standard addition method through Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. Then I isolate the MOF after it has been adsorbed with PFAS and run it through a test to test its structure, and qualitative test to see if PFAS is on the node.
Mikel: Ensuring all data and experimentation is documented and performed in a safe manner. Proper disposal of hazardous waste.
Versnik: I make sure all PFAS products are handled carefully and disposed of in a proper manner, while ensuring all contaminated equipment is properly cleaned. I also make sure all data regarding PFAS experiments is recorded and saved from instruments that we use.
Zhang: In this project, my responsibilities are varied and involve everything from conducting experiments of PFAS adsorption to analyzing data and mentoring the undergraduate students who are part of the research team.
What have you learned from participating?
Berens: I have learned countless number of new lab skills and become accustomed to different types of NMR detection such as F19 and become accustomed to PXRD, SDT and proper synthesis techniques for MOF-808.
Mikel: A variety of scientific techniques as well as how to develop of methods for scientific testing.
Versnik: I have learned about the many different types of PFAS and how certain procedures work better for certain PFAS than others, and I have been able to develop my skills on scientific instruments.
Zhang: Being a mentor has provided me with an invaluable experience. It has allowed me to develop leadership skills and gain new perspectives through the fresh ideas and enthusiasm that the undergraduates bring to the table.
What has been your favorite part? Has anything surprised you?
Berens: My favorite part would be what this research will do for society one day, giving us a chance to remove harmful PFAS. Chemistry always surprises me even when things work. The unexpected is very common in MOF synthesis.
Mikel: My favorite part was learning about aspects of chemistry that I would normally not be involved with. The main thing that has surprised me is how often experiments do not go as planned.
Versnik: My favorite part has been using instruments that I would not have used until higher level courses or chemistry electives. I don’t think I’ve been surprised by anything, but the efforts to remove PFAS from the environment have amazed me.
Zhang: During hosting the visiting undergraduates from UW-Stevens Point, my favorite part of was the collaborative atmosphere. Working closely with Dr. Mondloch and his students has been incredibly motivating and has enhanced my understanding of teamwork in a scientific setting, and we shared different ideas in this project.
What are your career goals and how will this research experience help you develop the skills needed to attain them?
Berens: My career goals are undecided at this moment. Graduate school or entering the workforce will be my next stop after my bachelor’s degree. This research has given me loads of experience, helping me to become more confident in lab and opening avenues for future employment or graduate programs.
Mikel: My career goal is to work at an engineering contracting/consulting company that is involved with water or pollutant treatment at a facility or site. The research symposiums that I have participated in have given me the opportunity to improve my social skills when explaining topics to interested parties with differing levels of knowledge.
Versnik: I hope to continue with my schooling into graduate school then further my career in research. I have been able to assist with the development of experimental procedures, learned about the importance of documenting and reporting findings and results. This has helped me to develop the necessary independent laboratory skills and has allowed me to collaborate and work with people who are experts in their field.
Zhang: Overall, this project has not only deepened my knowledge of PFAS but also reinforced my passion for research to contributing positively to society through science.
