June 12, 2025
Two ChemE students have been awarded scholarships from the Renewable Energy Scholarship Foundation for their commitment to innovative clean energy research
The Renewable Energy Scholarship Foundation (RESF) supports Pacific Northwest students pursuing renewable energy studies across disciplines including science, policy, law and economics. Since 2016, the foundation has awarded scholarships to over 130 students for their academic success.
Tata Serebryany
Schneider Electric Scholar​
Tata Serebryany, a first-year Ph.D. student in chemical engineering, received the $7,000 Schneider Electric Scholarship. Serebryany's research in the Rorrer Lab centers on the catalytic upcycling of plastic waste, with a focus on developing high surface area catalysts capable of converting polystyrene into valuable chemical products. His work, funded through a NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, is helping reduce plastic pollution while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Prior to joining the University of Washington, Serebryany earned an honors bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Utah, where he conducted research in the Whitty Lab on carbon-neutral power generation through the gasification of biomass and recycled plastic oils. Beyond his research accomplishments, Serebryany demonstrates an exceptional commitment to community engagement and engineering education. He actively participates in STEM Pals, a graduate student organization that provides hands-on workshops and science education programs for K-12 students in the greater Seattle area.
Mathangi Venkatesh
RESF Scholar
Mathangi Venkatesh, a senior in chemical engineering, was awarded a $1,000 scholarship by RESF. Over the past year, Venkatesh has conducted research in the Bergsman Research Group, focusing on the development and testing of innovative membranes designed to remove salt and PFAS contaminants from water systems. Venkatesh will graduate this June, and will begin her master's degree in chemical and biomolecular engineering at the University of California Irvine in the fall, where she will continue her research in sustainable materials and clean water technologies. Venkatesh's work interlaces environmental protection and chemical engineering innovation, addressing critical challenges in water treatment and sustainability.