We are thrilled to announce that Christine Rukeyser has joined our research group: Christine was an accomplished member of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Honors College, where she undertook an ambitious thesis project under the guidance of Professor Meredith Barbee. Her research delved into the exciting field of polymer mechanochemistry, exploring the synthesis and characterization of stress-sensing mechanophores to characterize the relationship between external strain and molecular level force in epoxy adhesives.  Throughout her undergraduate journey, Christine demonstrated an unwavering commitment to expanding her practical knowledge through various research projects and internships. In 2022, she earned a prestigious spot in the Fulbright Canada—Mitacs Globalink Research Internship program. This remarkable opportunity allowed her to immerse herself in summer research at the University of Manitoba, where she worked closely with Professor Johan van Lierop’s research group. During this experience, Christine focused on synthesizing and characterizing magnetic epsilon-iron-oxide nanoparticles for the development of rare-earth free permanent magnets, enhancing her expertise in nanomaterials and their properties. The following summer, in 2023, Christine took part in the highly regarded National Science Foundation – Research Experience for Undergraduates (NSF REU) program at Princeton University. Under the mentorship of Professor Emily Davidson, she engaged in intricate research, performing multi-step synthesis of stimuli-responsive endcaps for self-immolative polymers. This work honed her laboratory skills and contributed to advancing innovative and sustainable polymer systems with potential applications in drug delivery and responsive materials. After completing her undergraduate studies, Christine embraced a new challenge by joining the Oak Ridge National Laboratory through a Post-Bachelor’s Research Appointment and as GEM Fellow Intern. There, she worked under the mentorship of Tomonori Saito, engaging in pioneering research focused on the deconstruction and upcycling of step-growth polymers. This experience allowed her to explore sustainable practices in polymer science further and contribute to developing environmentally friendly material solutions. Welcome aboard, Christine!