Join us!
Postdoc opening – We are seeking a postdoc in the field of physical inorganic chemistry to lead the high-pressure mechanochemistry projects. We are particularly interested in candidates with a strong background in inorganic/organometallic synthesis and spectroscopy. Although the scope of work is primarily experimental, experience with computational tools (e.g., DFT) is highly favorable. Experience with high-pressure techniques is preferred but not required. This position is supported by a three-year foundational grant. Expected start date is Jan. 2026. Applicants should send CV and representative publications to Hao.Yan@unt.edu.
Principle Investigator
Hao Yan
Hao.Yan@unt.edu
CV
I joined UNT in Fall 2019 as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry. I obtained my Ph.D. in chemistry from Harvard University. Prior to UNT, I held a joint Research Associate position between Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory from 2017 to 2019.
My research work spans many fields pertinent to physical and materials chemistry, including low-dimensional systems, self-assembly and nanostructure-enabled devices. My latest interest lies in chemistry under extreme conditions, and in particular, using mechanical stress such as high pressure to drive novel reactions and create functional materials.
Left to right (front): Dr. Yan, Cindy, Lama, Tengteng, Abi, Carol.
Graduate Students
Bibek Sapkota
BibekSapkota@my.unt.edu
I am an ambitious graduate student in the field of chemistry at UNT. I completed my MS from Tribhuvan University, where I conducted research on the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials. Recently, I have been working on a project that involves the study of material under extreme conditions. In my free time, I enjoy indulging in curiosity by exploring new places and staying up to date with current events, particularly in politics and biographies.
Bhola Gautam
BholaGautam@my.unt.edu
I am a I completed my B.Sc. in Chemistry from Tribhuvan University in 2017, followed by a Master’s in Chemistry in 2022. I joined the Yan Group at UNT in Fall 2024, where I’m exploring ways to break down and recycle polymers using mechanochemistry. I’m especially interested in sustainable solutions for plastic waste and material recovery. When I’m not in the lab, I enjoy watching football and learning about new ideas in science and technology.
Scott Watson
Undergraduate Students
Brenden Johansen
I am an undergraduate student at UNT getting my major in Chemistry with a minor in material science and plan to graduate in May 2026. I have been fascinated with chemistry since I was in elementary school and I am looking to go to graduate school after I get my bachelors. I love climbing rocks and slaying dragons in my free time.
Owen Gibson
I am an undergraduate here at UNT earning my B.S. in chemistry. I have been studying the physical and chemical properties of deep eutectic solvents under various conditions. In my free time, I like to cook, explore nature, and play games with friends.
John Bray
I am an upcoming graduate student here at UNT where I also earned my Bachelors of science in Biochemistry in 2025. Recently I have been working on a project investigating a correlation between spectroscopic methods and viscosity. Outside of classes and the lab, I enjoy cooking, listening to music, going to concerts, lifting and climbing.
Esteban Urquidi
Greetings! I’m currently a senior studying biochemistry at UNT and on track to graduate in spring 2026. Originally from El Paso, Texas, I’ve spent most of my life in the vibrant Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and call Denton, Texas, home. My passion lies at the intersection of biological sciences, chemistry, and engineering. I plan on attending the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, for chemical engineering. I want to pursue a career in process engineering for industries like pharmaceuticals, bio-therapeutics, cosmetics, home goods, or food science.
Former Students
Sicheng Wang (grad student)
SichengWang@my.unt.edu
I am a chemistry graduate student here at UNT and obtained my Bachelor of Applied Chemistry from Anhui Normal University (AHNU) of China. During my time at undergraduate, I focused on the research in Bio-sensor and Material area. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, doing exercise and dancing.
Tengteng Lyu (grad student)
TengtengLyu@my.unt.edu
I am a graduate student in Physical Chemistry at UNT. My research focuses on the synthesis of nanodiamonds with precise size control and on engineering color centers within diamond clusters for quantum technologies, sensing, and bioimaging applications. I also investigated high-pressure induced topochemical reactions in two-dimensional, brucite-like layered materials, revealing how the presence of void space within these structures governs reactivity and enables the formation of new solid-state compounds. Outside the lab, I enjoy yoga, going to the gym, and petting my friend’s dog, and I’m working hard so I can raise one of my own someday.
Cynthia Archambault (grad student)
CynthiaArchambault@my.unt.edu
I am a chemistry graduate student here at UNT and obtained my Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Texas Lutheran University in 2017. Previously, I have spent time researching flow chemistry as well as azobenzenes in liquid crystals. In my free time, I enjoy exploring and outdoor activities with friends.
Peter VanNatta (postdoc)
Peter.Vannatta@unt.edu
I earned my Ph.D. in 2021 from the University of Utah focusing on hydrogen atom abstraction thermodynamics by dicopper complexes under the tutelage of Dr. Kieber-Emmons. I enjoy utilizing a multitude of spectroscopic methods coupled with computational modeling to develop insight into the rules governing desired reactivity. I joined the Yan group as a postdoc in 2021 and am utilizing high-pressure to distort geometries of dicopper systems and track the resulting inorganic electronic structure perturbations to accomplish challenging monooxidation of C-H bonds. I also am working to design and fabricate novel tools and spectrometers to facilitate in-situ measurements in diamond anvil cells.
David Purvis
I am an undergraduate chemistry major here at UNT, graduated from the Texas Academy of Math and Science program. I am fascinated by the possibilities of chemistry research and plan to continue my education in graduate school soon. Outside of class, I enjoy reading Science Fiction and Fantasy novels, gardening, and running.
Aishani Gupta (TAMS)
I’m Aishani Gupta, a high school student at the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, currently pursuing the Computer Science track. With a keen interest in research, I strive to advance academic knowledge while exploring my passions. I’m eager to see what journey my academic interests take me on!
Anvita Agarwal (TAMS)
My name is Anvita Agarwal, I am a current junior at the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, on the computer science track. I have a CAD (computer aided design), background as well as experience with multiple coding languages and interest in research.
Jackson Hill
My name is Jackson Hill and I am currently going into my 4th year of being an undergraduate. My major is a BS in Chemistry with Forensic focus and I am currently in the beginning stages of working on chitin and its various mechanical properties with Dr. Yan.
Vigna Lavu
I’m currently a junior at TAMS on the traditional science track. I’ve always been interested in science, specifically biology, and have a goal to become a doctor. In my free time, I like to play basketball, travel, and spend time with my family and dogs.
Anoushka Rustagi
I am currently a TAMS junior (first year) on the traditional science track. My interests lie in cellular biology and biochemistry, and I’ve always been fascinated by the way biology draws connections between all life forms. I’d like to pursue a career in either health science or biological research. In my free time I enjoy volunteering, baking, and exploring new trails with my family.
Carly Yang
I am currently a junior at TAMS on the traditional science track. I’ve always been interested in science because there’s a limitless amount of knowledge I can gain about the world around me. Some things I love include swimming, reading, hanging out with my friends, and dogs.
Carol King
I am a current TAMS junior on the traditional science track. In my free time, I like to read, bake, and swim. I’ve always been interested in science because it allows me to discover more about the world.
Abinaya (Abi) Kumar
I am currently a first year student at TAMS, and am planning on graduating May 2021. I am aiming to become a medical doctor, specifically a pediatric oncologist. I am fascinated by chemistry and how it is interwoven in every specialty, as well as its importance in new discoveries and innovations. In my free time, I enjoy reading and volunteering.
Nidhi Kotha
I am a TAMS senior on the traditional science track. I’ve always been drawn to science ever since I was a little kid because we can learn so much from it. In my free time, I love making art, hanging out with my friends, and trying new foods.
Preety Jagdishgir Gosai
I am an undergraduate student at the University of North Texas majoring in Chemistry with a Certification in Forensic Science, planning to graduate in May 2021. I am aiming to do a Masters and PhD in Forensics. I like to read novels and crime cases in my free time.
Lama Abu-Amara
LamaAbu-Amara@my.unt.edu
I am a current graduate student at UNT in the department of Chemistry. I graduated from Kent State University in Ohio in Spring of 2018 where I received my bachelor’s degree in Chemistry with a Biology concentration. In my undergraduate years I was mainly interested in Organic chemistry. However, I am currently looking to expand my interests to involve interdisciplinary research. Aside from Chemistry, I have immense passion for both oil and acrylic painting.
Umar Syed
UmarSyed@my.unt.edu
I am a post baccalaureate student studying to become a medical doctor. Prior to enrolling at UNT, I graduated from The University of Texas at Dallas with my Bachelors in Healthcare Studies with a concentration in Biochemistry. I have always been fascinated by the natural sciences and enjoy working in different fields of science and seeing how they all fit together!
Ebubechukwu (Ebube) Mojekwu
EbubechukwuMojekwu@my.unt.edu
I am currently getting my Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from UNT, hopefully graduating in May 2020. I’m looking into getting Masters in Education or going up towards a PhD in Chemistry. I have come to enjoy Chemistry as a science more than the other sciences because the knowledge I’ve gained in my chemistry classes has helped structure the world around me.