Abigail Paul is intent on making a difference in the field of chemical engineering by changing the way we approach energy storage systems. The MMI Prep alum is presently a doctoral candidate in chemical engineering at Ohio University, where she expects to complete her studies by 2026 and further explore how coal might be used in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

The GAANN (Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need) fellow got her post-MMI academic start at West Virginia University in Morgantown, West Virginia. One of the highlights of her time at WVU was safely leading groups through the zipline course at the globally-attended World Scout Jamboree, but she’s mostly recognized for the work she performed as a resident assistant. Both roles prepared her well for her PhD studies. In her relatively short time at Ohio University, Abigail has worked as a teaching assistant for two chemical engineering courses. In that role, she graded assignments, gave guest lectures, and worked on lab-based projects. She presently serves as a mentor for undergraduate students and meets with several on a daily basis to provide ongoing guidance and motivation.

Abigail’s research is starting to catch fire. She recently earned her first publication in the peer-reviewed Journal of the Electrochemical Society with a piece entitled “Application of the Multi-Species, Multi-Reaction Model to Coal-Derived Graphite for Lithium-Ion Batteries.” The piece is an extension of what her professor John A. Staser, PhD, deems “important” work for United States energy and materials security and a huge feat for a student so early in her graduate school career. Abigail has also presented her coal-based research at various conferences, including the Appalachian Carbon Forum and the Electrochemical Society meeting in Sweden.

Her passion for science is not only seemingly boundless but also infectious. Recently, she became the President of Ohio University’s student chapter of the Electrochemical Society and is working hard at revitalizing the once-dormant program. Her plan? To stir up interest in electrochemistry within her community and host outreach programs with local high schools that will offer hands-on experiential learning. To top it all off, she’s a member of the Industrial Electrochemistry and Electrochemical Engineering division outreach committee, as well as a research assistant at her school where she’s working on a Department of Energy project concerning the use of carbon supply chain wastes and byproducts to manufacture graphite.

There’s no doubt that Abigail is a scientist to watch—now, and in the years to come.