PI: Shuyi Xie, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor in Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University
Educational Background
Postdoctoral Scholar, University of California Santa Barbara - 2023
Ph.D., University of Minnesota Twin Cities – 2020
B.S., Wuhan University – 2015
Research Interests
Polymer Physics
Ion-containing Polymers
Block Copolymers and Polymer Blends
Plastic Recycling and Upcycling
X-ray and Neutron Scattering
Postdoctoral Researchers
Dr. Jipeng Zhang
Ph.D. Chemistry and Physics of Polymers / Wuhan University (2024)
B.S. Chemical Engineering and Technology/Hefei University of Technology (2019)
During my doctoral research, I focused on natural polymers, especially the design and construction of natural polysaccharide-based functional materials. In my free time, I like basketball and running.
Current project: Reprocessable Natural Polymers
Ph.D. Students
Jie Xu
3rd year Ph.D. Student (2023-)
M.S. Materials Physics and Chemistry/ Sun Yat-Sen University (2023)
B.S. Chemical Engineering and Technology/Sun Yat-Sen University (2020)
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Sun Yat-Sen University in China. During my junior year, I joined a thermodynamics lab, where I conducted research on the kinetic and thermodynamic properties of phase change processes. I continued this work through my Master’s degree in Materials Physics and Chemistry, further deepening my expertise in this field. Outside of my research, I enjoy engaging in sports, dancing, and traveling.
Current project: Structure and dynamics of telechelic ionic associating polymers
Garrett Hidalgo
2nd year Ph.D. Student (2024-)
B.S. Chemistry and Mathematics/LeTourneau University (2024)
I graduated from LeTourneau University in 2024 with Bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and mathematics. As an undergraduate, my research focused on synthetic pathways to N-alkylate 2-aminobenzothiazole. I also spent a summer working under Dr. Jurss at the University of Mississippi synthesizing molecular catalysts for water oxidation. I spend my free time following my favorite sports teams and playing frisbee.
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Current project: Sequence-directed assembly of copolymer blends
Chia-Chi Tsai
3rd year Ph.D. Student (2023-)
M.S. Chemical Engineering/Purdue University (2019)
B.S. Chemical and Materials Engineering/National Central University(2018)
I am from Taiwan. I got my bachelor's degree in Chemical and Materials Engineering at National Central University. I joined nanomaterials lab for my undergraduate research focusing on easy-cleaning, wear-resistance zirconium thin film. After that, I got my master's degree in Chemical Engineering at Purdue University and worked in Nan Ya Plastics Corp, America as a Chemical Engineer in Sales for three and a half years in South Carolina. I like to play golf and travel around.
Current project: Viscoelasticity of ionomers and blends in the melt state
Yuemin Xin
1st year Ph.D. Student (2025-)
M.S. Chemical Engineering / National University of Singapore (2025)
B.S. Chemical Engineering / Dalian University of Technology (2024)
I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Dalian University of Technology, where I conducted research on nickel-based electrocatalysts for seawater electrolysis. During my Master’s studies at the National University of Singapore, I worked on methane pyrolysis to produce BTX using molten metal catalysts, which deepened my understanding of reaction mechanisms and material design. These experiences sparked my interest in structure–property relationships in materials and inspired me to further explore this field. Outside of research, I enjoy listening to hip-hop music, fitness training, and traveling.
Group alumni
Undergraduates
Kevin Zheng (TAMU, CHEN, Summer 2025)
Estefania Rosas (TAMU, CHEN, Spring 2025)
REU students
Cassie Duclos (FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Summer 2024)
Jessica Gomillion (Brigham Young University, Summer 2024)
We are excited to welcome aspiring and talented individuals to join our dynamic research group. Our goal is to design and understand advanced polymer materials that pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.
Opportunities for PhD and Undergraduate Students:
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PhD Candidates: Our research projects offer a unique blend of fundamental polymer physics and cutting-edge sustainable materials development. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, as well as opportunities to present your work at leading conferences.
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Undergraduate Students: Are you enthusiastic about conducting meaningful research as an undergraduate student? Join us as an undergraduate research assistant and get hands-on experience in various aspects of polymer science. Whether you are considering a future in academia or industry, this opportunity will equip you with valuable skills and knowledge.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates can apply by submitting their applications to shuyixie@tamu.edu. Please include a CV and a brief statement of research interests.