Supporting New Jersey Schools: Encouraging Young People to Consider a Career in Science & Technology

Princeton Center for Complex Materials (PUMA), in collaboration with TRIO Upward Bound and TRI Princeton, welcomed eight students from Trenton Central High School, Princeton High School, and Hightstown High School to the Princeton University Materials Academy, over series of days this summer (July 8 – 26). This year's theme was the materials science of hair.

TRI research associate, Ayin Abegunde, being one of the first lecturers, eased students into

the program by sharing her experience transitioning from chemical engineering to hair

sciences, discussing how to make an impact in hair science and on society, and addressing

the social aspects of hair. Senior research associate Vanessa Castro educated students on

data visualization. Hair research director Ernesta Malinauskyte lectured on hair biology and

chemistry and engaged the students in a myth-busting session. Additionally, Ayin, Vanessa, and Ernesta demonstrated practical aspects of hair porosity testing via contact angle

measurements, as well as the use of transmission and scanning electron microscopes for

hair cross-section and surface evaluation.

TRI welcomed the students on a field trip focused on the science of hair. Students

participated in sessions organized by Murielle Mason, Marquita Braxton, Mariana Olivato R.

O. Souza, Vanessa Castro, Marcella Gabarra, and Larry Senak on hair combing, styling,

bleaching, and chemical signature analysis using FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy. During

lunch break, TRI scientists discussed their educational paths and career decisions, while the

students shared their hopes and plans for future studies.

This experience enriched the students' understanding of hair science and highlighted the vast career possibilities in hair and cosmetic research.

Contact us for more information about our educational work.