Author: Neng Xiao

Ben was in the department’s spotlight.

by at


https://chemistry.osu.edu/news/graduate-student-spotlight-benjamin-garrett-gibson-city-illinois

Graduate Student Spotlight: Benjamin Garrett – Gibson City, Illinois
Ben Garrett is a 4th year graduate student in our department, coming to us from the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign, where he graduated with a B.S. in Chemistry. During his free time, Ben loves being active, by spending his time outside exploring Columbus’ beautiful metro parks and multiuse trails. When he has a chance, he tries to sneak in some non-scientific recreational reading.

Currently, Ben is co-advised by Drs. Yiying Wu and Christopher Hadad. His current research involves synthesizing and studying hepta-coordinate molybdenum-sulfur complexes which can be easily-tuned as hydrogen evolution catalysts for potential water-splitting applications.

As a grad student, Ben feels that graduate school has taught him how to efficiently work through the research process, which in turn, has greatly helped in developing his decision making and problem solving skills. With this knowledge and experience, he hopes to continue conducting fundamental research in the energy space. He also hopes to use his skill set to contribute to important problems facing our society, such as providing enough sustainable energy for the growing population.

Ben has always liked rags-to-riches stories and admires Arnold Schwarzenegger for his work ethic and his drive. As far as scientists he admires, Benjamin is fond of Professor Omar Yaghi, who recently visited OSU for the 2016 Mack Lecture, which Ben was highly involved in the planning for. Dr. Yaghi moved to the United States alone at the age of 15 and barely able to speak English. He then enrolled in college and went on to a successful career that inspires Ben today.

We look forward to seeing what Benjamin will do with his career and are glad to have him as a part of our Chemistry community!