Emily Marchlewski, a senior biochemistry major from Lower Burrell, Pa., was one of 10 students selected for Westminster College’s 10th annual Summer Research Fellowship. Marchlewski worked with chemistry professor Dr. Pete Smith on her project, “Extraction of Rare Earth Elements from Industrial Waste Products.”

Rare earth elements (REEs) are essential components of many everyday products, including laptops, smartphones, wind turbines, solar panels and medical equipment. Because most REEs currently are imported, Marchlewski researched methods to extract and recycle these elements from industrial waste products, with the goal of developing more domestic sources.  

As part of her research, Marchlewski collaborated with a regional manufacturer that provided industrial waste materials for her project. She worked to identify effective methods for extracting REEs from the waste so they could be recycled and reused in new applications.

Marchlewski became interested in rare earth elements because of their potential environmental and economic impact and her passion for the environment. 

“In high school I absolutely loved my chemistry classes, but I wanted to see the human impact, too. Biochemistry is a great mix of the two. I get to focus on chemistry while understanding its connection to biological systems,” said Marchlewski. 

The Summer Research Fellowships are awarded through The Drinko Center for Undergraduate Research and provide students with hands-on research experiences under the guidance of faculty mentors. Marchlewski appreciated the opportunity to devote her full attention to her research during the summer without the additional demands of her academic coursework. 

Through Smith’s knowledge and support, Marchlewski said she grew as a researcher and gained confidence through the opportunity to work one-on-one with a faculty mentor. 

“Getting to work with Dr. Smith has been absolutely amazing. He has helped me not only gain confidence in myself at the lab, but has also taught me numerous techniques and skills that will prepare me for my future endeavors,” said Marchlewski. 

Marchlewski plans to attend graduate school and pursue a career as a chemistry professor while continuing her research. Outside the classroom, she is involved in TRIO and Greek life and is a member of the marching band and choir. She also serves as a peer success coach. 

To learn more about Westminster’s Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, visit www.westminster.edu/biochemistry. 

Sponsored by the Drinko Center for Undergraduate Research, Summer Research Fellowships at Westminster College allow students to conduct hands-on research and creative projects under the guidance of our experienced faculty mentors.  

More Stories