Lauren Ellis is a senior Honors Chemical Engineering student at the University of Washington, where her research focuses on the magnetic recoverability of nanoparticle-based heterogeneous catalysts for applications in liquid-phase catalysis, polymer upcycling, and biofuel production. As an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Julie Rorrer’s lab, Lauren investigates low-gradient magnetic separation of metal-supported catalysts, combining experimental design and data analysis to better understand catalyst recovery. She has presented her research at regional and national American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) conferences. Outside of her research at UW, Lauren has held multiple leadership roles focused on community building and professional development within ChemE as well as industry roles. Lauren gained industry experience as an Innovation Intern at International Paper’s Global Cellulose Fiber Innovation Center. Lauren leads professional development, outreach, and mentorship initiatives to strengthen and advocate for the UW ChemE community through her roles as AIChE Pacific Northwest Regional Chair, AIChE President, Chem-E-Car President, a member of the Chemical Engineering Department Chair’s Advisory Committee, and on the executive board of the ColorMePhD UW student chapter. Lauren’s experiences with mentorship and education, and commitment to sustainability, have led her to pursue a PhD this fall, where she will expand her knowledge on sustainable catalysis research.