Qixuan Hu, a PhD candidate in the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering.

Plastics have played an outsized role in industrial and economic development, renowned for their manufacturability and durability. But that latter trait has also led to a long-standing problem, and society has been tackling the challenge of plastic pollution on a number of fronts for many years now. Qixuan Hu is a PhD candidate in the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering. He’s researching recyclable plastics that can be used in a more sustainable fashion in industrial settings, with the ultimate goal of eliminating our plastic pollution problem.

What is your research focus, what investigative avenues are you pursuing?

My research area is in chemical engineering, specifically in the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel recyclable polymer. The ultimate goal is to provide a new structure of close-loop recyclable polymer to solve plastic pollution.

What spurred your interest in this particular topic and line of research?

I was interested in chemistry and environmental protection before selecting this topic. The subject matter and ultimate goal are a good match for my enthusiasm.

Why did you choose Purdue to continue your studies as a graduate student?

Purdue is well known for its diversity and multidisciplinary collaboration. This is a good place for an international PhD student to work on research for a wide variety of topics. The close links to industry and academia also help in finding jobs or postdoc positions for future career moves.

When did you first get interested in engineering and science?

It began when I was six or seven years old. I liked to watch TV shows and movies that talked about science, and I enjoyed science class in school.

What’s it like studying at Purdue?

It's pretty inclusive and collaborative. My advisor and other group members provide valuable comments and feedback for my work and help discuss the research challenges that I encountered in these past several years.

What else have you learned at Purdue, besides subject matter?

One thing I learned is about teaching. The two Teaching Assistant rotations helped me train my leadership and teaching skills. I have also mentored many undergrads during my PhD career, which also helped strengthen my ability to provide mentorship.

What is the Purdue research environment like?

For me it's about 60% research, 20% discussion and collaboration, 10% mentorship/teaching, and 10% other stuff. I have been involved in several joint patents, and also published some work in my research area. I have received multiple Fellowships and awards during my PhD career.

What advice might you give to other students deciding where to attend graduate school?

The important thing is to look at all faculty research to see if there are any that fit your interests. Five years working on something is a long time, and it shouldn't be something that is just "Okay," and not a close fit to your interests. Also be sure to look at equipment, facilities, and collaborations and network availability, to be certain there is a strong professional development and research environment. Purdue is a good research place on all these counts.

What about the future? What are your goals; what are you looking to accomplish in this field?

I am joining a chemical company for a research and development position, continuing my research of recyclable plastic and trying to implement these novel solutions into real industrial frameworks. The ultimate goal is to solve plastic pollution.

How about outside work? What do you like to do?

I like board games and sports. I play them with my friends and some group members. I also like cooking, hiking, and going to different museums.