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Miss. Bhawna

Ben Gurion University of the Negev (BGU), IL

DC9: Functional multi-stable synthetic networks

Supervisor: Prof. Gonen Ashkenasy

Background

I’m Bhawna from India. In 2018, I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Science with a focus on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from Guru Nanak Dev University, Punjab, India. Building on this foundation, I pursued a Master’s degree in Chemistry at the same institution, completing it in 2020. Throughout my academic journey, I have nurtured and exhibited an immense passion for scientific exploration and problem-solving, especially in chemistry.

During my Master’s degree program, I worked on research projects centered around synthesizing and characterizing novel chemical compounds with potential applications across various industries. One notable project involved investigating microwave-induced synthesis of Pyridine-based Schiff Bases for dyeing textiles. Additionally, I undertook a summer internship at the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, where I explored the synthesis, characterization, and aggregation study of a novel TICT-based AIE Active Naphthalimide Derivative, showing potential for high-performance LEDs.

Expanding my research horizons, I worked on Dynamic Covalent Bond Mediated Non-equilibrium Supramolecular Polymerization at Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) under the guidance of Prof. Subi Jacob George. This experience further honed my expertise in various chemical reactions, purification techniques, and spectroscopic and microscopic methodologies.

My ultimate ambition is to advance innovative research, particularly in the field of oscillations, with a focus on Systems Chemistry. This aspiration led me to join the group of Prof. Gonen Ashkenasy for my doctoral studies. I’m proud to be a co-author of the paper “A Peptide-Based Oscillator,” recently published in JACS and I would like to extend this work further in functional multi-stable synthetic networks.

In DarChemDN, I hope to find an environment that fosters my passion for scientific inquiry and offers opportunities for professional growth and collaboration in advancing the frontiers of  research and technology in chemistry. I’m excited and eager to participate in the workshops, seminars, and training sessions which will help me in further honing my scientific temperament. Through DarChemDN, connecting with experts from different fields will help me brainstorm ideas and methods, which will broaden my perspective and understanding. I am excited to be a part of the DarChemDN family.

Secondments

University of Groningen (RUG)

Duration: 3 months

Purpose: Studying self-replication super systems combining assembly-driven replication and template replication.

Parmenides Foundation (PARM)

Duration: 3 months

Purpose: Explore theoretical and computational methods to model network rewiring.