Undergraduate Research

Nerves of Steel

Dante Guerra saw his undergraduate research not only as an opportunity to gain real-world experience but to change the world around him.

While working with L. James Lee, professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, Guerra invented a patentable nanoparticle spraying technique, which could have important impacts for the composite industry.

“Some of the materials I worked with are lighter than steel but 60 percent stronger,” Guerra said of his research. “I worked to improve these current materials to make them even stronger and lighter through the use of nanoparticles.

His undergraduate research gave him an opportunity to experience things he would not get a chance to do otherwise.

“When you work with industry here at Ohio State, you get treated like a head of R&D” said Guerra, who plans to pursue a career in industry after earning his doctorate in mechanical engineering. “You can’t put a price on experience, especially experience like this.”