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Luis Zimmermann Feistel

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

Luis Henrique Zimmermann Feistel is a PhD student in Chemical Engineering whose work combines computational catalysis, transport phenomena, and data-driven scientific modeling. His research focuses on electrocatalysis and multiscale approaches for sustainable chemical processes, with experience in Density Functional Theory (DFT), reaction engineering, and scientific computing. Beyond research, he has teaching experience in thermodynamics and transport phenomena and is deeply motivated by the academic environment, aiming to pursue a career as a professor dedicated to both scientific innovation and the development of future engineers and researchers.

Education

Texas Tech University

Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
2023 - 2028
  • Majors:
    • Chemical Engineering

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Chemicals

    • Dream career goals:

    • Trainee/Field Engineer

      GelneX
      2019 – 20201 year

    Sports

    Basketball

    Varsity
    2014 – 202511 years

    Research

    • Chemical Engineering

      Texas Tech University — RA
      2023 – Present
    Dr. Hassan Homami Memorial Scholarship
    Winner
    My academic journey has been driven by a strong passion for engineering, scientific research, and education. As a PhD student in Chemical Engineering, I work with computational electrocatalysis, multiscale modeling, and sustainable catalytic systems, combining tools such as Density Functional Theory (DFT), reaction engineering, and scientific computing to study cleaner chemical processes. My research focuses on understanding catalyst stability and reaction mechanisms for carbon dioxide conversion, with the broader goal of contributing to technologies that support a more sustainable future. Coming from an international academic background, I learned how transformative education can be, especially for students pursuing opportunities beyond their original environment. As a Brazilian student studying abroad and engaging in international research experiences, I had to adapt to new academic cultures, languages, and expectations. These experiences taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of collaboration across disciplines and cultures. More importantly, they reinforced my ambition to become a professor capable of combining high-level research with mentorship and student development. Throughout my academic path, I have always tried to stay involved in initiatives that connect engineering with people. During my undergraduate years in Brazil, I participated in projects such as Espaço CrEativo and ABENGE Estudantil, experiences that significantly shaped my view of education and leadership. These initiatives allowed me to work closely with students, educational outreach activities, and discussions about the future of engineering education in Brazil. Through these experiences, I realized that engineering is not only about technical development, but also about creating environments where students feel motivated, welcomed, and encouraged to grow intellectually and professionally. In addition to research, teaching has become one of the most meaningful aspects of my academic life. I have experience assisting courses in thermodynamics and transport phenomena, and I genuinely enjoy helping students understand concepts that are often considered intimidating. I believe that one of the greatest responsibilities of a professor is not only transmitting knowledge, but also helping students build confidence in their ability to think critically and solve problems. This perspective motivates me to continuously improve both my technical knowledge and my communication skills. Another important aspect of my journey has been the integration of computation, visualization, and scientific communication. Beyond developing computational models and simulations, I am also interested in finding ways to communicate science more effectively and accessibly. I believe that researchers have a responsibility to make scientific knowledge understandable and engaging, especially for younger students who may be discovering engineering for the first time. The values represented by the Dr. Hassan Homami Memorial Scholarship strongly resonate with me because they reflect ambition, perseverance, and the desire to use engineering to positively impact society. My long-term goal is to pursue a career as a professor and researcher dedicated not only to advancing sustainable technologies, but also to mentoring and inspiring future generations of engineers. I want to contribute to an academic environment where students feel supported, challenged, and motivated to use their knowledge to create meaningful solutions for society.