![Eleanor Scott poses next to a microscope.](https://www.uc.edu/news/articles/2023/12/n21216220/jcr:content/image.img.cq5dam.thumbnail.500.500.jpg/1702925027950.jpg)
UC engineering student helped start new lab
Eleanor Scott has been studying at UC for 10 years
Ten years ago, Eleanor Scott came to the University of Cincinnati to pursue a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and gain real-world engineering experience through UC's cooperative education program.
In the beginning of her master's program, she began working for Assistant Professor Sarah Watzman, who was in the process of setting up a brand-new lab. After working in the lab for several months, Scott decided to remain at UC for her doctoral degree in materials science.
Her doctoral research focuses on magneto-thermoelectric characterization of Weyl semimetals. She was recently accepted into the U.S. Department of Energy's Science Graduate Student Research Program and was named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by UC's College of Engineering and Applied Science.
Why did you choose UC?
Eleanor Scott is pursuing her PhD in materials science at the University of Cincinnati. Photo/Provided.
I started at UC for my undergraduate degree studying mechanical engineering. UC was my first choice because I wanted to stay local and my family all lives in the Cincinnati area.
CEAS's co-op program was also a big draw because I was able to get experience working in an engineering department and that experience is what motivated me to continue my schooling and pursue my Ph.D. I know I made the right choice to stay at UC because I love working in Dr. Sarah Watzman's lab, and it has opened the door to many research collaborations.
Why did you choose your field of study?
My undergraduate degree was in mechanical engineering, but all my favorite classes were focused on the materials side of things. I love studying materials science because it incorporates so many other disciplines. I get to work with chemists, engineers and physicists all on the same projects. I chose to work on thermoelectric materials specifically because my ultimate goal was to pursue research in renewable energies and other technologies which could have a positive impact on the environment.
Briefly describe your research work.
Eleanor Scott is researching the thermoelectric transport of a specific class of materials called topological materials. Photo/Provided
Thermoelectric materials are materials that can convert heat into electricity. Our current energy sources produce large amounts of unused energy in the form of heat and so the aim of this field is to convert this waste heat into emission-free electric energy, thus lowering the overall environmental impact of these energy sources.
My research focuses on the thermoelectric transport of a specific class of materials called topological materials, which have shown promise.
The thermoelectric effects in these materials are enhanced using a magnetic field and so my research involves characterizing these thermomagnetic effects. My work explores the various transport properties found in these unique materials, laying the groundwork for the creation of a new and enhanced thermoelectric device.
What are some of the most impactful experiences during your time at UC?
Working in Dr. Watzman's lab has given me so many opportunities to share my work at scientific conferences and collaborate with other labs outside of UC.
The biggest impact being my opportunity to be a visiting researcher at the National Renewable Energy Lab in Golden, Colo., through the U.S. Department of Energy's Science Graduate Student Research Award. I wouldn't have been able to do this without the help of Watzman and her collaborations.
What are a few of your accomplishments of which you are most proud?
My Graduate Student Research Award from the Department of Energy is my biggest accomplishment. It was the first time in my research career where I got to create my own project and write my own research proposal.
When do you expect to graduate? What are your plans after earning your degree?
I'm hoping to graduate by the end of the Spring 2024 semester. After graduation, I hope to continue research by working in a national lab.
Featured image at top: Eleanor Scott poses next to a microscope in the lab. Photo/Provided
Related Stories
UC Day of Giving kicks off with celebration of scholarship gift
April 15, 2021
UC Day of Giving is kicked off with an important scholarship gift for nursing and engineering.
UC’s summer semester offers students short sessions, flexibility
April 12, 2021
Coming into the summertime of 2020, Sumedha Kappagantula was considering ways to make the most her opportunities during what is usually a break from the academic rigor of her traditional school year. As a Biomedical Engineering major in the UC’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Kappagantula is minoring in Chemistry and Biological Sciences, taking classes through the College of Arts and Sciences. She thought summer semester would be a great time to get ahead in her coursework, and move her degree forward.
Neil Armstrong UC Forward Innovation Award 2021 winners announced
April 13, 2021
Team of three undergraduate students from different disciplines excel in an innovation course at the University of Cincinnati.
UC engineering students recognized for achievement in cooperative education
April 12, 2021
Top students in engineering cooperative education for 2020-21
From Singapore to Cincinnati: UC guides grad to success
June 4, 2021
UC grad talks about how her time in UC's College of Arts and Sciences set her up for success.
UC staff have elected their 2021-23 Staff Senators
June 8, 2021
Join us in congratulating the 2021-23 new Staff Senate members! Elections were held in early May, and new senators will begin their two-year term in July 2021. All UC staff are encouraged to be part of the enthusiasm and excitement for our new senators by attending the Staff Senate online meeting via WebEx, June 30, 9-11 a.m.
FOX News: UC grad walks across America for charity
March 29, 2021
UC College of Arts and Sciences graduate Mark Dudek is walking across the country to raise money for charity.
The making of a successful Faculty & Staff Campaign
May 25, 2021
More than one-third of UC’s nearly 7,000 faculty and staff have already contributed to the 2020-21 Faculty & Staff Campaign, putting the goal of 45% within reach.
Students establish Association for Women of Color in Engineering
May 12, 2021
Three University of Cincinnati student found a new student organization to support women of color in engineering.
Three additional days off for UC employees
July 14, 2021
President Neville G. Pinto announced that UC employees will receive three additional days off in 2021 for going 'above and beyond' during the pandemic. The time away will take place during Winter Season Days.