PCI is proud to be partnering with the School of Polymers and High Performance Materials at The University of Southern Mississippi to provide information on the program’s upcoming graduates. Read below to learn about our Student of the Month, and email polymers@usm.edu or call 601-266-4868 for more information about them.

Name: William Walker
Degree Being Sought: BS in Polymer Science, Minors in Mathematics and Chemistry
Undergrad Degree & Institution: University of Southern Mississippi, BS May, 2016
Research Group:Azoulay Research Group
Area of Study: Conjugated polymers for infrared light detection   
Hometown: Magee, MS

Give a brief synopsis of research/work being done.

My work focuses on the synthesis and characterization of state-of-the-art donor-acceptor copolymers for detection of infrared light. This research has possible applications in imaging, biosensors and energy production.

From your current perspective, what do you see as an ideal fit for your skills, goals and career moving forward?

I believe my skills would be best suited by a career in research and product development in industry.

Why did you choose USM?

I became interested in polymer science at a young age, and USM had a good polymer program.

What USM-related scholarships did you receive?

I received the Presidential Scholarship.

What awards have you won?

I was the spring 2016 SPUR Research grant awardee.

Who or what influenced your USM education the most?

Dr. Rawlins’ coatings class was by far the most practical class that I have taken. That class tied a lot of the polymer knowledge I’ve gained together, so now I can hardly look at things in my everyday life without considering the process used to make them or coat them.

What was your most profound turning point while at USM?

The transition from prerequisite classes of freshman and sophomore years to the more in-depth polymer classes of junior and senior years was definitely the profound turning point in my academic career.

What are your plans for next year and beyond?

I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in polymer science and engineering in preparation for a career in industry.

Please provide an interesting (personal) fact about yourself.

I love photography and acquiring new lenses to enjoy.