Ashley Elgersma

Chemistry master's student in the Faculty of Science

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I am coming from Edmonton, Alberta to start my Master's in Chemistry at SFU. In my undergrad, I participated in a variety of diverse research, including developing algorithms for computational chemistry software, integrating sustainability and chemical security into chemistry education, and studying the interactions between Vanadium and naphthenic acids, two toxic components of tailings ponds in the Athabasca Oil Sands Region. In all of these projects I have worked on, I have found that I am inspired to learn in order to educate and develop solutions for current global problems. There are many problems that can be solved through Chemistry, and I hope I can play a small part in finding their solutions

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I was drawn to the Holdcroft group at SFU, whose research focuses on ionic polymers, electrochemistry, and fuel cell technology. These technologies really starting to emerge as solutions to move towards clean energy and a carbon-neutral future.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

A fuel cell is an electrochemical device that allows us to get electricity from a chemical process, kind of like a battery that can be recharged by adding more chemicals. One of the most common fuel cells uses the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, with the only byproduct being water. Fuel cells require a membranes that only allow specific charged ions to pass through them in order to balance electrical current. I'll be studying new kinds of membranes to see how their chemical structure affects their ability to conduct ions.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Electrochemistry, Fuel cells, ionic polymers.

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

I believe that being able to effectively communicate science is an integral part of scientific research. I hope that through research and teaching opportunities, I will continue to develop my communication skills.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I have received an NSERC CGS-M award, which is a prestigious award that will allow me to focus on my education and research without having to worry about financial constraints.

Contact Ashley:ashleyelgersma@yahoo.ca