Xiyou (Ren) Liao

Global Challenge: Develop carbon sequestration

Bio:

I was born in China and lived there for seven years before moving and growing up in Houston, Texas. I am a current junior pursuing a B.S. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with a minor in Computer Science. My passions are for sustainability in energy and urban infrastructure.

This past summer, I worked for Solaq in Amsterdam on water remineralization research. My research and final recommendations contributed to Solaq's air-to-water technology as well as their mission to provide safe, reliable drinking water to communities that face the issue of water scarcity. With this experience, I gained knowledge about working with a smaller team, business outreach, and individual project management.

In my previous research experience, I studied perovskite films and analyzed their structure and optical properties for the potential to achieve quantum cutting which contributes to improving silicon solar cells.

Currently, I work as a TA for EG1004 where I help first year students develop essential engineering hard and soft skills while providing support and resources for them to successfully complete a semester long design project. I also am a part of the NYU Tandon Concrete Canoe team as the Principal Reaction Engineer. We research and develop innovative concrete mixes to improve the concrete industry. Our previous accomplishments have included the production of carbon-zero and carbon-negative concrete, both of which can have drastic contributions to the sustainability of the urban industry.

In my spare time, I like to take long walks around the city to to explore and take photos. I also enjoy sketching and reading.