Thirty-one PhD students and postdoctoral researchers will head to CAS headquarters as the 2026 class of CAS Future Leaders. At CAS headquarters in Columbus, Ohio, Aug. 17–22, these scientists will receive leadership training, take part in career development workshops, and learn from and network with industry experts and each other. The cohort will then join thousands of fellow scientists at ACS Fall 2026 in Chicago, Aug. 23–27.
The job titles, affiliations, and qualifications of the 2026 CAS Future Leaders are listed as they were at the time of the award announcement in March. Their quotes were edited for length and clarity.
Jeanette A. Adjei
Jeanette A. Adjei Credit:
Courtesy of Jeanette A. Adjei
Postdoctoral researcher at University of California, Merced
Education: BSc, chemistry, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), 2018; PhD, inorganic chemistry, Western University, 2025
Research: Designing photoswitchable boron Lewis acids to catalyze the conversion of carbon dioxide and epoxides into polycarbonates
Career advice: “One of the earliest pieces of advice from a mentor was to always build community. ‘Put a face to a name,’ get outside the lab, interact with people within and outside your field. It played a huge role in my development and opened up doors I never would have found otherwise.”
Ashton Aleman
Ashton Aleman Credit:
Courtesy of Ashton Aleman
PhD candidate at Stanford University
Education: BSE, chemical engineering, University of South Carolina, 2021; PhD, chemical engineering, Stanford University, 2026
Research: Using in situ and operando techniques to understand material degradation mechanisms affecting electrochemical energy technologies
Career advice: “I would encourage others not to be afraid to ask for help and build meaningful connections. Some of the most valuable opportunities and lessons in my career have come from the relationships I have formed with mentors, colleagues, and peers. I would also encourage them to get involved in activities beyond research, as these experiences can broaden your perspective, help you grow as a leader and communicator, and allow you to make an impact in ways you might not expect.”
Jusung An
Jusung An Credit:
Courtesy of Jusung An
Postdoc researcher at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Education: BS, chemistry, Hallym University, 2018; PhD, chemistry, Korea University, 2024
Research: Developing molecular tools for amyloid pathology, multimodal neuroimaging, and diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases
Career dreams: “To lead a research group that uses chemistry to address unsolved diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, and to translate molecular discoveries into real-world impact. I hope the molecules and technologies I develop will eventually contribute to practical advances in diagnosis, treatment, and human health.”
Juliana J. Rodriguez Antonio
Juliana J. Rodriguez Antonio Credit:
Courtesy of Juliana J. Rodriguez Antonio
PhD candidate at Southern Methodist University
Education: BS, chemistry, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, 2021
Research: Using computer simulations to understand how chemical bonding, noncovalent interactions, and electronic structure shape complex chemical systems
Career advice: “Computational chemistry is constantly evolving, so don’t feel like you need to know everything. Find a niche that excites you, stay curious, and talk to people in the field. The most rewarding opportunities often come from exploring new ideas and being open to continuous learning.”
Lucas Attia
Lucas Attia Credit:
Courtesy of Lucas Attia
PhD candidate at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Education: BSE, chemical engineering, University of Delaware, 2021; PhD, chemical engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2026
Research: Spans machine learning, cheminformatics, and nanotechnology, currently building molecular property prediction models with Lilly TuneLab
Favorite thing about current work: “Machine learning for drug discovery is advancing at a dizzying pace, with constant innovation in methods, models, and datasets. While challenging, the speed is exhilarating. The field keeps learning and improving, and it is a privilege to help accelerate the design of medicines for patients who need them.”
Alicia M. Battaglia
Alicia M. Battaglia Credit:
Courtesy of Alicia M. Battaglia
Postdoctoral fellow at the University of Toronto
Education: BSc, chemistry, Western University, 2019; PhD, polymer and materials chemistry, University of Toronto, 2024
Research: Developing novel polymer materials for sustainable energy storage and conversion technologies
Career dreams: “The support of outstanding mentors has been instrumental to my development as both a scientist and a person. I strive to give back by providing thoughtful, inclusive mentorship and teaching that helps future scientists reach their full potential.”
Isabela A. A. Bessa
Isabela A. A. Bessa Credit:
Courtesy of Isabela A. A. Bessa
PhD student at Fluminense Federal University
Education: BS, chemistry, Fluminense Federal University, 2016–20; MS, chemistry, Fluminense Federal University, 2021–23; PhD, chemistry, Fluminense Federal University, 2023–27
Research: Drug delivery systems based on inorganic nanomaterials for glioblastoma treatment
Career advice: “The most important thing is to know what you want, and where you want to get because the journey will be hard, but if you have a clear goal, we will find the strength to move forward.”
Shinhyeong Choe
Shinhyeong Choe Credit:
Courtesy of Shinhyeong Choe
Postdoctoral researcher, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
Education: BS, environmental engineering, Chungnam National University, 2017; MS, civil and environmental engineering, KAIST, 2022; PhD, civil and environmental engineering, KAIST, 2026
Research: Linking polymer biodegradation to material transformation, carbon fate, and microbiome function across environmental systems
Favorite part of current work: “My favorite part is working at the interface of polymer chemistry, environmental chemistry, and microbiome science. Bringing different fields together gives me new ways to ask questions, and the more I study biodegradation, the more I enjoy discovering how much remains unknown about polymer materials in natural and engineered environments.”
Marcel Roy B. Domalanta
Marcel Roy B. Domalanta Credit:
Courtesy of Marcel Roy B. Domalanta
PhD student at North Dakota State University
Education: BS, chemical engineering, Saint Louis University, 2018; MS, chemical engineering, University of the Philippines Diliman, 2022
Research: Using electrochemistry and polymer science to study coatings to help metals resist rust and make batteries more reliable
Career advice: “If you are thinking twice about doing a PhD, it probably means it matters to you. The path is difficult, but difficulty is not a stop sign. You can fail without being a failure, make mistakes without becoming one, and grow into the person the work requires.”
Blaine G. Fiss
Blaine G. Fiss Credit:
Courtesy of Blaine G. Fiss
Killam Postdoctoral Fellow at Dalhousie University
Education: BSc, nanoscience, University of Guelph, 2016; PhD, chemistry, McGill University, 2022
Research: Leveraging mechanochemical methods to synthesize refractory plasmonic nanoparticles, studying their formation and applications for photocatalytic pollutant remediation
Favorite thing about current work: “Every day brings new insights, and concepts I once thought I understood are being challenged in exciting ways. Connecting fundamental discoveries in inorganic synthesis and materials science to practical applications has been especially rewarding.”
Adrián de la Fuente Ballesteros
Adrián de la Fuente Ballesteros Credit:
Courtesy of Adrián de la Fuente Ballesteros
Postdoctoral researcher at Leuphana University
Education: BS, chemistry, University of Valladolid, 2019; MS, education teacher training, University of Valladolid, 2020; MS, advanced techniques in chemistry, University of Valladolid, 2022; MS, scientific communication and cultural knowledge management, microbacterium, Nebrija University, 2024; MS, artificial intelligence and innovation, Founderz and Microsoft, 2024; PhD, chemistry, University of Valladolid, 2025
Research: Development of novel green analytical methods for the determination of contaminants and bioactive compounds in food and environmental matrices
Career dreams: “Many scientists are excellent at generating knowledge. My dream is to help knowledge travel further. Whether through research, education, international collaborations, or science communication, I want discoveries to leave the laboratory and create impact where they are actually needed.”
Anthony Griffin
Anthony Griffin Credit:
Courtesy of Anthony Griffin
Postdoctoral researcher at the University of Southern Mississippi
Education: BS, biochemistry, California Polytechnic State University–San Luis Obispo, 2020; MS, polymers and coatings science, Cal Poly, 2021; PhD, polymer science and engineering, University of Southern Mississippi, 2025
Research: Developing scalable upcycling strategies to convert difficult-to-recycle commodity plastics into value-added advanced materials for energy and environmental sustainability applications
Favorite part of current work: “My favorite part of my work is turning scientific discovery into meaningful impact. I enjoy bridging fundamental insights and practical solutions to address important societal challenges. The most rewarding aspect is seeing how curiosity-driven research can inspire innovations that advance sustainability, strengthen communities, and create lasting benefits for future generations.”
Ainoa Guinart
Ainoa Guinart Credit:
Courtesy of Ainoa Guinart
Postdoctoral researcher at ETH Zurich
Education: BSc, nanoscience and nanotechnology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 2018; MSc, novel therapies, Imperial College London, 2020; PhD, chemistry and nanotechnology, University of Groningen, 2025
Research: Photochemistry, light-responsive materials, and dynamic hydrogels
Career dreams: “I feel I have already achieved my biggest professional dream: enjoying what I do for a living. I do not see my career as pursuing a fixed endpoint, because once an end goal is reached, the journey risks feeling complete. Instead, I hope to keep helping people, advancing science, and enjoying the process. Science, to me, should never have a final destination.”
Tarisha Gupta
Tarisha Gupta Credit:
Courtesy of Tarisha Gupta
PhD student at Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar
Education: BSc (H) chemistry, University of Delhi, 2020; MSc, chemistry, IIT Gandhinagar, 2022
Research: Exploration of PCET in electrocatalysis for small molecule oxidation related to energy and biomass valorization
Favorite thing about current work: “What excites me most about my research is knowing that even small scientific contributions can play a role in addressing global energy and sustainability challenges. Being able to work toward solutions that can benefit both society and our environment makes the journey deeply meaningful to me.”
Anjali Gurajapu
Anjali Gurajapu Credit:
Courtesy of Anjali Gurajapu
PhD candidate at Caltech
Education: BS, chemistry, University of California, Berkeley; BA, data science, University of California, Berkeley
Research: Building better predictive models for synthetic organic chemistry using algorithmic approaches for training data selection and high-throughput experimentation
Favorite part about current work: “I’m grateful that my current research allows me to collaborate with experts across chemistry and computer science. I’ve particularly enjoyed identifying research questions that bring together our different areas of expertise and allow us to make the most of each team member’s strengths.”
Hannah Holmes
Hannah Holmes Credit:
Courtesy of Hannah Holmes
Postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University
Education: BS, chemical engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2019; PhD, chemical engineering, Georgia Tech, 2024
Research: Developing separation materials for the selective recovery of dilute pollutants and resources from complex environmental streams
Favorite part of current work: “Mentoring is my favorite part of research. Helping undergraduate and graduate students reach their academic and professional goals, while watching them discover the joy of research, is the most rewarding aspect of my work.”
Scarlet L. Hopkins
Scarlet L. Hopkins Credit:
Courtesy of Scarlet L. Hopkins
PhD candidate at Griffith University
Education: Bachelor of Forensic Science, forensic chemistry, Griffith University, 2022; Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Griffith University, 2022; BS, chemistry, Griffith University, 2023
Research: Investigating the use of metal complexation in forensic science to improve trace evidence visualization techniques
Favorite part of current work: “I love working in forensic science because the outcomes have direct, real-world applications that can significantly impact people’s lives. The multidisciplinary nature of the field allows me to collaborate across diverse projects and teams, whilst working closely with the police ensures that our results are practical and accessible, helping translate research into effective tools which support investigative needs.”
Maggie Horst
Maggie Horst Credit:
Courtesy of Maggie Horst
Postdoctoral fellow at University of California, San Francisco
Education: BS, chemistry, Duke University, 2018; PhD, chemistry, Stanford University, 2024
Research: Designing proteins from scratch to control their function and understand their biophysics
Career advice: “New technologies continue to transform the average socially necessary labor for many types of work. As scientists, we need to continue to ask whether and how these tools can help us better understand the world and can improve the quality and sustainability of life.”
Nishu Kanwa
Nishu Kanwa Credit:
Courtesy of Nishu Kanwa
Postdoctoral researcher at Radboud University
Education: BSc, chemistry, Miranda House College, University of Delhi, 2012; MSc, chemistry, University of Delhi, 2014; PhD, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, 2021
Research: Developing synthetic cells from bottom-up, lab automation, AI/ML-driven approaches, soft matter
Favorite part of current work: “My favorite part about the research work is being creative, in approaches, in design of experiments, in interpretation. Building synthetic cells from bottom-up is fundamental yet fun. There’s so many unexplored modules and approaches.”
Daniel M. Krajovic
Daniel M. Krajovic Credit:
Courtesy of Daniel M. Krajovic
Postdoctoral associate at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Education: BS, chemical engineering, University of Rochester, 2020; PhD, chemical engineering, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, 2025
Research: Modifying architecture and pendent chemistry in polymers of intrinsic microporosity for more selective and scalable gas separation membranes
Career dreams: “To develop technologies that empower humanity to adopt more sustainable and ethical stewardship of the molecules that support our lives. And later, to lead younger scientists in the same pursuit while guiding them to build confident voices and prosperous lives.”
Kaitlin M. Landy
Kaitlin M. Landy Credit:
Courtesy of Kaitlin M. Landy
Postdoctoral researcher at University of Chicago
Education: BS, chemistry, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, 2018; PhD, chemistry, Northwestern University, 2023
Research: Repurposing biopolymers for the assembly of nanostructured materials with new optical or mechanical properties
Career advice: “Always attend seminars and conferences when you have the chance! Seeing other researchers present their work is such an engaging way to keep up with emerging research, and seeing new perspectives outside of your usual field can inspire you to take your research in new directions!”
Valeria B. Lopez Cervantes
Valeria B. Lopez Cervantes Credit:
Courtesy of Valeria B. Lopez Cervantes
PhD student at National Autonomous University of México
Education: BS, chemistry, National Autonomous University of México, 2019; MS, materials science and engineering, National Autonomous University of México, 2022
Research: Metal-organic frameworks for toxic gas capture and fluorescence sensing
Career advice: “Be curious, persistent, and open to learning from different people and disciplines. Research often involves challenges, but these offer you an opportunity to grow. Seek mentors, ask questions, and remember that scientific progress is built through patience and collaboration.”
Kenneth López Pérez
Kenneth López Pérez Credit:
Courtesy of Kenneth López Pérez
PhD student at University of Florida
Education: BS, chemistry, University of Costa Rica, 2020; PhD, chemistry, University of Florida, 2026
Research: Efficient similarity-based cheminformatics tools for the analysis of ultra-large chemical libraries. Linear complexity approaches to similarity calculations that enable ultra-fast and efficient clustering of databases
Career dreams: “I want to be a professor. I believe classrooms are transformative and can impact positively many students.”
Guanyu Lu
Guanyu Lu Credit:
Courtesy of Guanyu Lu
Postdoctoral researcher at Northwestern University
Education: BEng, energy and power engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, 2018; PhD, mechanical engineering, Vanderbilt University, 2023
Research: Engineering nanophotonic materials and devices to control light–matter interactions for thermal management, chemical sensing, and light-driven chemical transformations
Favorite part of current research: “My favorite part is working at the boundaries between fields, where ideas from physics, materials science, and chemistry can reshape one another. I enjoy translating concepts across disciplines and seeing how nanoscale optical structures can reveal new ways to understand and use energy.”
Andrés Merino-Restrepo
Andrés Merino-Restrepo Credit:
Courtesy of Andrés Merino-Restrepo
Postdoctoral scholar in petroleum microbiology, University of Alberta
Education: BS, biological engineering, National University of Colombia, 2016; MS, biotechnology, National University of Colombia, 2018; PhD, bioresource technology, University of Alberta, 2025
Research: Harnessing catalysts, fungi, and microbial communities to remediate pollutants and convert waste into sustainable fuels and bioproducts
Career advice: “Embrace interdisciplinarity; the most exciting problems live at the boundaries between fields. Learn to communicate science to everyone and never underestimate the power of teaching others to deepen your own understanding. A career built on curiosity, integrity, and service to others will compound over time in ways you cannot predict.”
Racchana Ramamurthy
Racchana Ramamurthy Credit:
Courtesy of Racchana Ramamurthy
PhD student at McGill University
Education: Bachelor of Technology, chemical engineering, Anna University, 2019; International Master of Science in Environmental Technology and Engineering, Ghent University, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, University of Chemistry and Technology, 2021
Research: Developing analytical methods to elucidate and quantify polymeric per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, closing the environmental organofluoride gap
Career advice: “Always dream big! You are capable of anything you set your mind to. Pursue your goals with courage, seek mentors who challenge and elevate you, and carve your own path as a pioneer in your field. Stay grounded in curiosity, and give back to the community while pursuing science for the joy of discovery.”
Alicia S. Robang
Alicia S. Robang Credit:
Courtesy of Alicia S. Robang
Postdoctoral researcher at Weill Cornell Medicine
Education: BS, chemical and biomolecular engineering, 2019; MS, chemical and biomolecular engineering, 2021; PhD, chemical and biomolecular engineering, 2024
Research: I use molecular dynamics simulations and machine learning to probe cellular mechanisms and design small molecule antifibrotic drugs
Favorite part of current work: “My favorite part of my work is the challenge and complexity of the drug discovery process. It requires developing expertise across a wide range of computational modeling tools and knowing how to apply them to specific biological systems. The field evolves rapidly, which can be demanding, but it is also incredibly exciting. There are always new approaches to explore and new opportunities to advance our understanding of biology, medicine, and drug discovery.”
Humphrey S. Samuel
Humphrey S. Samuel Credit:
Courtesy of Humphrey S. Samuel
Graduate student at Emory University
Education: BSc, industrial chemistry, Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria, 2023
Research: Gas-phase molecular spectroscopy of small metallic species using spectroscopic techniques and ab initio computational methods to characterize actinide bonding
Hopes for program: “I am excited to connect with the world’s most promising emerging chemists shaping the future of science. I hope to gain fresh perspectives and ideas on scientific leadership, strengthen my advocacy skills, and network with like-minded scientists.”
Nitesh Sanghai
Nitesh Sanghai Credit:
Courtesy of Nitesh Sanghai
Postdoctoral researcher at University of Manitoba
Education: BPharm, pharmacy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, 2000; MS, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, 2012; PhD, University of Manitoba, 2026
Research: Discovering and developing small molecules to tackle neurodegeneration, bridging the principles of medicinal chemistry and neuroscience
Career advice: “Staying motivated every day to advance science is not easy. It requires listening to your heart and remembering why we chose this path, to serve the community and save lives. When we reconnect with that purpose, science becomes more than work; it becomes a mission. There is no greater motivation than making a real difference in someone’s life.”
Yohei Tanifuji
Yohei Tanifuji Credit:
Courtesy of Yohei Tanifuji
PhD candidate at Keio University
Education: BE, chemistry, Keio University, 2023; ME, chemistry, Keio University, 2024
Research: CRISPR/Cas-based nucleic acid detection integrated into paper-based analytical devices for point-of-care diagnostics
Career advice: “Find the reason to do, not the reason not to do. Opportunities are created by your own actions, so always act in ways that expand your possibilities.”
Vishal Yadav
Vishal Yadav Credit:
Courtesy of Vishal Yadav
Postdoctoral research scholar, The Pennsylvania State University
Education: BSc, chemistry, University of Calcutta, 2014; MSc, chemistry, IIT Bombay, 2016; MA, chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, 2018; PhD, chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, 2022
Research: Working at the interface of inorganic chemistry and enzymology
Career advice: “Follow your own path; don’t chase trends. Take time to understand what truly inspires you, then pursue it wholeheartedly. Advocate for yourself, because visibility matters, and build meaningful connections; networking is net worth. Seek mentorship, contribute beyond your lab, and find your community. Everyone has something valuable to offer, so make your voice heard.”
