Consultant Spotlight - September 2025

 

Carissa Yim

PhD Student in Chemical Engineering

 

How long have you been with miLEAD? 

About half a year, since March 2025.

What is the focus of your research?

I work in the field of photocatalysis, aiming to use solar energy rather than fossil fuels to generate valuable products and fuels. I've studied CO2 conversion to methane, and am currently focused on making ammonia (NH3, the key ingredient in fertilizer).

What are your current career goals?

I am interested in working in industry. Many chemical companies are striving to make their processes more sustainable, and I'd like to help tackle those challenges. I would also be happy to pursue renewable energy technology at a national lab. Lastly, I'd like to be involved in policy one day, but I aim to gain a broader range of experience before diving into that realm.

What roles have you played on projects? 

I am currently a consultant on a project with a medical device company.

What led you to seek out miLEAD?

I was attracted by the opportunity to diversify my research skills and become a more well-rounded person. I'll feel more confident joining a company after grad school with an idea of what it takes for a product to succeed on the market, or what questions to ask to determine next steps.

Since joining miLEAD, what skills have you been able to develop?

I've learned to use tools to evaluate the market/competitors, identify investors, and make professional/aesthetic slides. Our project happens to be on a tighter timeline of 6 weeks, so it's taught me to balance my days when I have commitments outside of research.

What has been one of your most rewarding experiences thus far working with miLEAD? 

Honestly, I have really enjoyed the research for this project and the chance to work with new people. We've learned about wearable devices/technologies to alleviate disease symptoms, and how complex regulations and insurance can be. I've been really impressed by the thorough and extensive work my teammates can execute in a short time, and I feel proud seeing it come together in our slides. The kindness and understanding among our teammates and project leads when working on an assignment together, along with our clear efforts towards collective success, have made for a very positive experience.