RIT LSAMP Scholar Shin Lutondo ’18 gets published as lead author for his chemistry research | January 2019
Alumnus Shin Lutondo ’18, earned his bachelors in Chemistry at Rochester Institute of Technology, a motivated learner with a keen interest in becoming a scientist.
As a student, Lutondo sought out opportunities to put his interests into practice. He knew he’d have to find a program that would challenge him and permit him to strengthen his skills. Lutondo decided to apply for the Louise Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program and was accepted.
Lutondo completed organic chemistry research funded by LSAMP. As an LSAMP scholar, he had the opportunity to work with Dr. Alla Bailey, principal lecturer at the School of Chemistry and Materials Science, about his research and writing a paper, entitled “Surface Modification of Polyethersulfone (PES) with Ozone.” After completing his research, presenting it at a symposium and going through the rigorous process of having it peer reviewed, his research was approved to be published.
The peer-reviewed research was published, where Lutondo was listed as the lead author in the Ozone: Science & Engineering, The Journal of the International Ozone Association.
As part of the LSAMP program, students are paid a stipend to complete undergraduate research in their field of study with a faculty mentor. Students are expected to present their research at a symposium and write a paper outlining their research findings. The LSAMP program is funded by the National Science Foundation and seeks to improve the quantity and quality of graduates of color in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math fields.
Lutondo’s success was also instrumental through support of other programs and affiliations, like: McNair Scholar; Multicultural Center for Academic Success (MCAS); Men of Color, Honor and Ambition (MOCHA); Organization of African Students (OAS); and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).
Lutondo is currently an associate scientist at Unilever, working as a product developer.