A MODEL FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS OF SCIENTISTS

by JULIA MCNULTY

TODAY, THE INTERDISCIPLINARY NATURE OF MODERN SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH IS A GIVEN, AND DELANEY MILLER, A SENIOR HONORS CHEMISTRY MAJOR AT THE U, IS MAKING SIGNIFICANT STRIDES WITH HER MINORS IN NUTRITION AND ECOLOGY, INTERSECTING MULTIPLE DISCIPLINES.

This, while prioritizing STEM outreach and communication at the same time.

Originally from Cedar City, Utah, Miller was drawn to the U for its scholarship offerings and robust science programs. Her passion lies in sustainable materials research, particularly biomaterials. She has gained valuable experience working with Shelley Minteer on the electrosynthesis of monomers for plastics derived from biomass compounds. Currently, Miller is contributing to Connor Bischak's research, characterizing organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors for energy storage applications.

Miller's commitment to scientific advancement extends beyond the laboratory. She is actively involved in several professional organizations, including the Society of Women Engineers, the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science, and the American Chemical Society (ACS). Through these affiliations, she has helped organize conferences promoting diversity in STEM and coordinated outreach activities to enhance STEM education accessibility for youth.

Her leadership in the ACS Student Chapter at the U has been particularly noteworthy. Miller's efforts in this role earned her the Student Leadership Award from the national ACS, allowing her to attend the Society's leadership institute and expand her professional network.

The University's Learning Abroad program has significantly enriched Miller's academic experience. She studied Spanish in Oviedo, Spain, and participated in an ecology program in Kenya, experiences she describes as "truly once-in-a-lifetime." These opportunities have broadened her perspective on global scientific challenges and approaches.

Miller’s academic journey has been shaped by meaningful interactions with faculty members. She highlights collaborations with Kaci Kuntz, Holly Sebahar, and Tom Richmond on teaching and science outreach projects. Additionally, she credits Minteer and Bischak as influential research mentors who have supported her growth in materials research.

As she prepares for graduate studies in chemistry and a future career in academia, Miller remains committed to science education and community engagement. She serves as a teaching assistant for general chemistry labs, finding fulfillment in introducing new students to the field. Her outreach work, including scientific demonstrations for youth across Salt Lake Valley, reinforces her passion for science communication.

Delaney Miller's journey from undergraduate student to aspiring chemistry professor showcases the diverse opportunities available at the U. Her dedication to research, education, and community outreach positions her as a model for future generations of scientists.