.png){kind=small}
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.
