Nicole Chu: Master of Engineering

Originally from NJ, Nicole Chu received her undergraduate degree in materials science and engineering from Rutgers University and is a current Materials Science and Engineering Master of Engineering student here at Cornell University. In her free time, she likes to stay in shape by training for triathlons (swim, bike, run) and rock climbing. She’s hoping to compete in a few triathlon's this coming summer. Nicole also like to read fiction books, travel, and experiment with cooking. After graduation Nicole is interested in pursuing a career focused in electronics in the environmental or consumer goods fields. 

Nicole’s favorite aspect of the MEng program is the hands on quality in the form of a project paired with a company. She feels this program offers unique opportunities and experiences you may not find everywhere. Nicole also appreciates the access to top notch facilities that she receives through the program, such as the CNF and CMMR. These facilities allow her to experience working with instruments and techniques that will be very beneficial to have gained some practice and knowledge in before entering industry.   

Working with the Cornell Nanoscale Science and Technology Facility and startup company FlexSurface, Nicole Chu may be clearing the air toward a more sustainable future. Air pollution is a pressing problem for humans, but local solutions can be economically unfeasible for many. Nicole’s project was named “FlexSurface/CCMR Jumpstart Development of Microsensors for Air Quality Monitoring Devices.” Air pollution threatens not only the environment but also people’s safety and health including rising respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and organ damage. Thus, the need for personal air quality monitoring systems. Yet, current technology lacks the ability to detect chemicals with high sensitivity and selectivity and can be unaffordable for most people. Microelectrode and array devices on various substrates will be the foundation of the microsensor technology needed to create cost efficient and size appropriate air monitoring sensors for individual and home use. Ms. Chu will help to fabricate microelectrode and array devices on different substrates as microsensors and then test their performance and work to maximize the sensors capabilities.