The Department of Chemical Engineering is thrilled to welcome Dr. Paola A. Baldaguez Medina, who joined our faculty in July 2024. Dr. Baldaguez Medina, an alumna of the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (UPRM), completed her undergraduate studies through the undergraduate articulated program with the University of Puerto Rico at Humacao. She recently earned her Ph.D. from Prof. Xiao Su’s lab, where her work focused on the removal and destruction of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).
Dr. Baldaguez Medina’s current research interests are centered on water remediation, specifically using redox-mediated adsorption and advanced oxidation processes, as well as developing electrochemical sensors for cardiovascular diseases. In water remediation, she focuses on redox materials implemented in flow systems to investigate mass transfer and fluid dynamics, with an emphasis on heavy metal removal and detection in Puerto Rican communities affected by contamination. Her expertise in electrosorption complements her research in desalination technologies, and she is also exploring methods to enhance these processes through collaborative efforts, including with Argonne National Laboratory.
Dr. Baldaguez Medina is deeply committed to mentoring students, particularly Hispanic engineering students, to encourage them toward graduate studies and professional success. She brings with her a rich background in mentoring and has been actively involved in initiatives to support students’ academic and career development. Additionally, she serves as the faculty advisor for the ChemE Cube student organization, which focuses on innovative CO₂ removal technologies.
We are excited to see the impact Dr. Baldaguez Medina will bring to our department, students, and the broader community through her research and mentorship. Check out more about Dr. Baldaguez Medina’s research on her group’s website.
