As the child of two geologists, Caitlin Sample spent much of her childhood immersed in science, in the field with her parents, “seeing how their scientific understanding shaped the way they viewed the world."
But rocks just weren't enough for her.
"I was far more interested in living things — insects and plants — and how they adapted to the world around them,” Sample said. “As I learned more about chemistry, I realized that these adaptations often had their roots at the molecular level, and that by learning from biological systems, we could develop synthetic materials to help society adapt to the myriad challenges emerging in the 21st century.”
Sample, who recently joined Arizona State University as an assistant professor in the School of Molecular Sciences, is looking for ways to make polymers — the fundamental building blocks for countless products and applications in modern-day life — more sustainable.
Whether in household appliances, toys, medical equipment or a myriad of other items we use, polymers play a crucial role in various industries across globe. Polymers are also instrumental in renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels and wind turbine blades, facilitating the transition to sustainable energy sources and mitigating environmental impact.
As a new researcher at ASU, Sample said, “I hope that my research will provide some of the pieces needed to solve the puzzle of polymers’ role in society, both globally and locally.”
Sample, who has a joint appointment with the Biodesign Center for Sustainable Macromolecular Materials and Manufacturing at ASU, is an expert in polymer science, where she fell in love first with natural biopolymers and has come to value the opportunities in health care, energy and quality of life provided by synthetic systems. However, she also is concerned with the environmental impact of synthetic products.
"As such, my research focuses on designing sustainable, next-generation polymers with end-of-life in mind, whether that be through enabling controlled degradation or eliminating obstacles towards recycling," Sample said.
"One of the aspects of ASU I find especially exciting is the engagement with our community, where sustainability is a particularly pressing problem, and I hope that my research can first and foremost develop solutions for the challenges facing us here.”
When she’s not in the lab, Sample enjoys being outside wherever and however possible, whether hiking, running, biking or camping. One of her proudest outdoor accomplishments is biking along the U.S. Pacific Coast from Canada to Mexico.
“I’m also learning so much about the unique plants and animals of the harsh but rich desert ecosystem, and I find so much joy in discovering a new flower or bird when out for a walk at the Desert Botanical Garden,” Sample said.
As a young scientist building her research group, Sample also understands the importance of training the next generation of scientists and engineers.
“I have had the opportunity to mentor numerous undergraduate and graduate students over my career so far, and seeing the different — and sometimes surprising — paths that their lives have taken is truly inspiring," she said.
"As I start my own group, I hope above all that my legacy is that of a mentor who prepared students to be scientifically rigorous and socially responsible, as I know that their impact will far exceed my own.”
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