After completing his master's in India, Dr. Iyer pursued Ph.D. opportunities abroad to no avail. Joining as a research assistant at JNCASR under Prof. Sebastian C. Peter, he focused on synthesizing and characterizing intermetallics and organic-inorganic materials. This research yielded several publications, securing him a position at the University of Alberta, Canada under Prof. Arthur Mar. 

Dr. Iyer focused on developing rational synthetic design principles for new chalcogenides to study their optical and magnetic properties. Moving to Canada, brought challenges -  cold, language, teaching.  A supportive scientific community aided his growth both personally and professionally.  

His postdoctoral research at UC Riverside under Prof. Boniface Fokwa and Northwestern University under Prof. Mercouri Kanatzidis focused on muti-group collaborations resulting in new synthetic methodologies and structural stabilization of the highest-performing nonlinear optical materials. 

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Dr. Vidyanshu Mishra obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. He joined the group in July 2024. Before this, he served as a Research Scientist at SeeO2 Energy Inc. in Calgary while concurrently holding a Postdoctoral Fellow position at the University of Alberta. Dr. Mishra specializes in X-ray crystallography, machine learning, and quantum calculations for the design of new materials. His current research focuses on metal chalcogenides for water remediation and leveraging machine learning techniques to accelerate the discovery of materials. In addition to his professional pursuits, Dr. Mishra has a keen interest in photography. 

Dewin Waranasinghe is a Masters student in group. His research focuses on the synthesis of new noncentrosymmetric chalcogenides by using stereochemically active lone pair containing metals.

I am a 4th year Biochemistry major with a strong interest for environmentally focused research. I apply machine learning methods to efficiently identify new Inorganic materials with Photovoltaic applications. I love a challenge, especially when it involves working in a multidisciplinary space. Outside the lab, I enjoy teaching kids and sharing my passion for science. I'm driven by curiosity and a commitment to contributing to innovative, environmentally conscious solutions. 

My name is Riley Mollons, I am a third-year student majoring in microbiology, planning to attend medical school after my undergraduate degree. Outside of school I love being active and I am a member of Team Manitoba Rowing. 

My name is Nyx Andromidas, I am a third-year biochemistry major interested in environmental biochemistry and wildlife toxicology. I am currently cultivating my knowledge of laboratory and research techniques while exploring alternate fields of study. Outside of my studies I enjoy going to concerts, practicing karate, and walking my dog. I'm dedicated to furthering my education and contributing to the scientific community through environmental remediation strategies.