ChemE Graduate Seminar Series: Yomaira Pagán Torres
Tuning heterogeneous catalytic materials for selective CO2 hydrogenation to C1 chemicals
Yomaira Pagán-Torres
Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez
Tuesday, May 5
4-5 p.m.
PAA A110
Abstract
The thermal catalytic conversion of CO2 to C1 chemicals (CO, CH4, CH3OH) offers a promising route for carbon utilization; however, controlling product selectivity remains a central challenge due to the complexity of the reaction network. Supported metal on oxide and mixed-metal oxide catalysts have been extensively studied for CO2 hydrogenation. Product selectivity in these systems is governed by factors including metal and oxide particle size, metal dispersion, and metal/oxide interface structure. Despite significant progress, strategies to dynamically tune the metal/oxide interface structure to achieve desired product selectivity have yet to be established.
We have developed strategies to control metal speciation and surface chemical potential using Rh-doped perovskites as…
Event interval: Single day event. Campus location: Physics-Astronomy Auditorium (PAA). Campus room: PAA A110. Accessibility Contact: dso@uw.edu. Event Types: Lectures/Seminars.
Tuesday, May 5, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Chair's Distinguished Lecture: Huimin Zhao, Ph.D.
Biology by Design: From Directed Evolution to Autonomous Experimentation
Huimin Zhao, Ph.D.
Steven L. Miller Chair, Professor
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
4-5 p.m.
PAA A110
Reception with light snacks and beverages will follow the seminar in the Benson Hall (BNS) Lobby.
Abstract Synthetic biology aims to apply engineering principles to design novel or improved biological systems for a wide range of biotechnological and biomedical applications. However, due to the complexity of biology, it remains an overwhelming challenge to rationally design biological systems with desired features. In this talk, I will reflect my over three-decades of academic journey to tackle this challenge and highlight the paradigm shift from directed evolution to autonomous experimentation. Specifically, I will discuss a few representative case studies, including: (a) design and evolutionary engineering of artificial photoenzymes with new-to-nature reactivity…
Event interval: Single day event. Campus location: Physics-Astronomy Auditorium (PAA). Campus room: PAA A110. Accessibility Contact: dso.@u.washington.edu. Event Types: Lectures/Seminars. Target Audience: Graduate Students, Undergraduate students, Postdocs, Faculty.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Memorial Day
Holidays
No classes. Most University offices and buildings are closed. Check with specific offices to confirm.
Event interval: Single day event. Year: 2026. Quarter: Spring. Event Types: Academics.
Monday, May 25, 2026.
For more info visit www.washington.edu. ChemE Graduate Career Development Seminar: Mike Harney
Professional Engineering – Licensing and Ethics
Mike Harney, PE, P.ENG. ENV SP
State of Washington, Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors (BRPELS)
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
4-5 p.m.
PAA 110
Bio 25 years’ experience, Geotechnical Engineer , Shannon & Wilson Vice President, Board of Directors and Seattle Office Manager , Vice Chair, State of Washington, Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors (BRPELS) , Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical, University of Washington Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE), Structural, Purdue University Diplomate in Landslide Risk Assessment & Mitigation, University of Salerno.
Event interval: Single day event. Campus location: Physics-Astronomy Auditorium (PAA). Campus room: PAA 110. Accessibility Contact: dso@uw.edu. Event Types: Lectures/Seminars.
Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Chemical Engineering Graduation Ceremony
This ceremony celebrates Chemical Engineering graduates from 2025-2026.
ChemE graduation ceremony tickets typically become available for purchase in mid‑May and sales are managed directly by graduating students. Students are surveyed in early April to estimate ticket needs. Initial ticket quantities are limited to ensure equitable access while we evaluate overall demand. Additional tickets may be released as capacity allows.
Students are required to wear cap and gown.
Event interval: Single day event. Campus room: KANE HALL 130. Accessibility Contact: chemeadv@uw.edu. Event Types: Ceremonies.
Friday, June 12, 2026, 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM.
Juneteenth
Holidays
No classes. Most University offices and buildings are closed. Check with specific offices to confirm.
Event interval: Single day event. Year: 2026. Quarter: Summer. Event Types: Academics.
Friday, June 19, 2026.
For more info visit www.washington.edu. Independence Day (Observed)
Holidays
No classes. Most University offices and buildings are closed. Check with specific offices to confirm.
Event interval: Single day event. Year: 2026. Quarter: Summer. Event Types: Academics.
Friday, July 3, 2026.
For more info visit www.washington.edu.