Zhiyao joined Dr. Chen’s group in the Fall of 2025 as a postdoctoral researcher, working in the area of discrete and precise polymers. He received his B.S. in Chemistry from Sichuan University in 2018, and completed his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at Sichuan University in 2024 under the supervision of Professor Lihua Yuan. During his doctoral studies, his research focused on supramolecular chemistry, mechanically interlocked molecules, and artificial molecular machines. Currently, Zhiyao’s research explores the design and synthesis of precision polymers and cyclic oligomers. Outside the lab, he enjoys fitness training, reading, and exploring delicious food—along with providing complimentary training sessions for brave labmates.

Trinity is a graduate student in the physical chemistry (year of 2024). She received her A.S. at Midlands Technical College before attending Newberry College where she completed her B.S. in Chemistry and Biology. During her time there, she actively went to ACS and WCACS meetings and was involved with her own college’s ACS group, holding the title of vice president. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her family and listening to music.

Zejie joined Dr. Chen’s group in the Fall of 2024 as a graduate student in the biochemistry division. Before moving to South Carolina, he completed his master’s degree in Organic Chemistry at Jinan University. His previous research focused on the bioactivity and structural analysis of natural products, and he is experienced in interpreting complex NMR spectra. Outside the lab, Zejie enjoys cooking, watching movies, and hiking.

Seth is a graduate student (year of 2024) in the organic division. He received his B.S. in chemistry and biology from Saginaw Valley State University. While at Saginaw Valley State University, he worked with Dr. Stephanie Brouet on developing novel antibiotic derivatives. Seth then worked in industry with a focus on analytical chemistry, where he performed regulatory testing using mass spectrometry, HPLC, and FTIR. Outside of the lab, he spends his time fishing, watching movies, and supporting Detroit sports teams.

Guocong is a graduate student (Class of 2025) in the Organic Division. She received her B.S. in Polymer Materials and Engineering from the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology. During her undergraduate studies, she focused on flame-retardant modification and the alcoholysis of PET. Currently, her research centers on the synthesis and applications of oligomers and polymers, aiming to achieve effective applications in medical and biological fields. In her free time, she enjoys reading and skipping rope. She is especially fond of reading JACS with a serious, scholarly air.

Ruishi is a graduate (Class of 2025.5) in the Organic Division. She earned her B.S. in Chemistry from Peking University, where she conducted undergraduate research in Prof. Yun Liu’s group on the controlled polymerization of polydisulfides. Her current research focuses on the controlled synthesis and materials applications of cyclic polymers. Outside the lab, she enjoys staying at home, though her “green eggs” — her mascots — are enthusiastic travelers who explore the world for her.