Dr. Jennifer Lalli Presents at Tressler Awards

A Penn State polymer chemist’s role in the commercialization of green nanotechnology”

Alumna Jennifer Lalli, Ph.D., president at NanoSonic, Inc., presented the Richard E. Tressler lecture at Penn State University.

Lalli’s lecture titled “A Penn State polymer chemist’s role in the commercialization of green nanotechnology,” delved into her extensive career in polymer and materials science. She discussed the commercialization of her team’s research, funded by various organizations including the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Defense Logistics Agency, U.S. Navy, Customs and Board Protection, Missile Defense Agency, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, NASA, Department of Energy, and U.S. Space Force.

The lecture highlighted Lalli's journey from receiving her bachelor of science degree in chemistry at Penn State to earning her Ph.D. in polymer chemistry from Virginia Tech to her contributions to the development of nanomaterial products, including applications for Mars and green military composites.

Lalli provided insights into topics such as ultra-low glass transition temperature, high-pressure durable composites for hydrogen storage and dispensing systems, and personnel protective equipment that defend against nerve agents, Otto fuel, COVID, and influenza.

She discussed how her education has influenced her at NanoSonic and the integration of her graduate work into her daily responsibilities, offering perspectives on the intersection of academia and industry.

Lalli touched upon work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of managing professional and personal life. As a self-published author of "Hunt & Gather: The Healing Powers of Whole Grains, Lean Meat, and Prayer," she also discussed her commitment to holistic well-being.