Iris Huarui Cheng

• Ligand & Catalyst Synthesis– Designed and prepared β-diketiminate (NacNac) ligands bearing varied R-substituents (t-Bu, CF₃) and complexed them to Al centers, using Schlenk and glovebox techniques to afford air-sensitive Al–NacNac precatalysts.
• DFT-Guided Mechanistic Studies– Performed DFT (CPCM-B3LYP/def2-TZVP) calculations to map key steps in the olefin polymerization cycle (monomer coordination, migratory insertion, chain propagation), identifying transition-state geometries and energy barriers for each R-substituent.
• Experimental Validation & Structure–Activity Relationships– Conducted polymerization trials (1-hexene, styrene) under varied temperatures and monomer/CAT ratios, measuring turnover numbers (TON up to 10 000), molecular weights (Mn), and dispersities (Ð). Correlated ligand electronics (t-Bu vs CF₃) with activity and thermal stability.
• Catalyst Optimization– Guided by combined computational/experimental feedback, iteratively modified ligand framework to enhance catalyst lifetime (half-life > 8 h at 60 °C) and polymer microstructure control, achieving > 95 % syndiotacticity in polystyrene runs.

Self-healing smart skin using graphene enhanced vitrimer nanocomposites：

• Conducted the synthesis and characterization of self-healing vitrimer composites with integrated CNTs, optimizing synthesis, molding processes, mechanical and surface properties analysis, corrosion test.
• Developed an innovative algorithm based on Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) using MATLAB to efficiently process and analyze corrosion data.

• Taught weekly one-on-one and small-group violin lessons, tailored to each student’s level and goals.
• Provided clear progress updates to students and parents, adapting instruction based on feedback.
• Organized two annual recitals (30+ performers), handling venue booking, programme lineup and timing.
• Coordinated rehearsals and managed on-site logistics, ensuring smooth performances.

Hangover Relief through Enzymatic Innovation:

• Participated in the design and implementation of a complete production process for an enzymatic hangover relief product, which involved optimizing enzyme combinations for efficacy, scaling up the production line, and ensuring compliance with health regulations, contributing to its successful patenting.

Mannooligosaccharide-Enhanced Food Product:

• Coordinated the development of a mannooligosaccharide-enhanced food product, conducting market research and generating initial concepts. Designed preliminary production process, performed economic analysis, and evaluated the potential for commercialization.

Fermented beverage derived from germinated red brown rice, enriched with GABA:

• Participated in lab-scale experiments to optimize fermentation media and microbial ratios, engineered bioreactor designs for optimal conditions, and developed downstream processes including ultrafiltration and high-temperature sterilization.
• Successfully executed multiple pilot-scale production trials and process optimizations, prepared SOPs for equipment operation and maintenance, and successfully obtained a production license.

Advancing Antimicrobial Peptide Production for Animal Feed Enhancement：

• Engaging in the bioengineering of antimicrobial peptide biosynthesis pathways and downstream bioprocess optimization, performing bioreactor-based shake flask cultures, proteomic analysis for recombinant peptide expression, and quantifying antimicrobial activity.