Field
Location (during time of takeover)
School/Institution
| Undergrad | University of Mindanao |
|---|---|
| Masters | University of Mindanao |
| PhD | Myongji University |
Featured on June 19, 2023
Continuing our theme of featuring Balik Scientists contributing in their own unique ways to advancing science and technology in the Philippines, we’re joined this week by Dr. Chosel Lawagon—Director of Green Nanotechnology Innovations for Environmental Solutions and Director of the Institute of Emerging Technologies at the University of Mindanao.
A licensed chemical engineer, Chosel graduated from the University of Mindanao (UM) with a Bachelor’s and Masters in Chemical Engineering. After graduation, she worked as a lecturer at the College of Engineering Education at the same university. Chosel then pursued her PhD in Energy Science and Technology at Myongji University in South Korea with her dissertation studying lithium recovery from saltwater.
In 2020, Chosel became a Balik Scientist Program awardee under the Department of Science and Technology -Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research & Development (DOST-PCIEERD). Since assuming her positions as Director at the Green Nanotechnology Innovations for Environmental Solutions and Institute of Emerging Technologies at UM in 2021, Chosel has worked on a variety of research projects, including leveraging food waste for myriad applications. For instance, she has worked on producing a detection kit for hazardous wastes using extracts from sweet orange peelings.
Fun facts about Chosel:
- Move over stress balls and meditation; Chosel fights work stress with a banana cue! Who needs a therapist when you have this sweet treat in hand?
- Talk about unexpected adventures! Chosel copied her senior’s choice of Chemical Engineering in high school, leading her to become a Chemical Engineer while her friend took a different path.
- Before her Ph.D. journey, Chosel served as a campus ministry volunteer, taught full-time, and pursued her Master’s degree—three roles, one humbling experience. She credits her ability to endure it all to the grace of God.
Let’s all say hi to Chosel this week!
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This Balik Scientists takeover is made possible in collaboration with DOST PCIEERD. Stay tuned for more features throughout the month!
