On Wednesday, April 9, Dr. Christina McGahan from the Vanderbilt Institute of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (VINSE) visited the STEM club at Jonathan Edwards Classical Academy in Whites Creek, Tennessee, to present an overview of nanoscience and nanotechnology.
Dr. McGahan shared her academic and professional journey, from having no background in nanoscience to becoming a member of the VINSE cleanroom research team. She provided insight into the daily responsibilities of a scientist, including problem-solving technical issues, conducting experiments, and communicating research findings to various audiences.
The presentation introduced students to the fundamentals of nanoscience and highlighted its real-world applications in medicine, such as studying cancer cell behavior; in energy, through the development of more efficient solar cells; and in consumer electronics, such as thin, flexible virtual reality displays.
Students had the opportunity to examine actual nanofabricated devices created in the VINSE cleanroom, including microfluidic chips designed to detect lead in water and electrical devices used to record neural signals. One interactive segment involved analyzing scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of everyday materials—such as bread, spiderwebs, and insect claws.
The visit concluded with an introduction to cleanroom procedures. Students participated in a hands-on activity where they suited up in cleanroom garments similar to those used by researchers. According to the club coordinator, Dr. Edwin De Angel, the visit was a highlight of the year and provided students with valuable exposure to advanced scientific research and career paths in STEM.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. McGahan shared, “I had so much fun sharing what it’s like being a nanoscientist and how I got there with the JECA STEM club students, as well as showing them some of the cool work that takes place in VINSE and what researchers wear to do it! I really enjoyed the students’ unbridled curiosity and their range of thoughtful questions. I think it’s so important for students to be introduced to a wide range of STEM areas early on, and I’m happy to be a part of that.”