Two graduates of the Carleton University Chemistry program have been named in the Chemistry and Engineering News 2025 Talented 12, Dr. Shira Joudan and Dr. Alison Bain.
“Every year since 2015, C&EN has introduced readers to a dozen early-career scientists who use their chemistry know-how to make a real-world impact. This year’s Talented 12 cohort embodies the same smarts, creativity, and grit. These scientists are advancing practical solutions for plastics recycling and sustainable agriculture. They are developing a deeper
understanding of protein function, atmospheric aerosols, and the fate of persistent pollutants. And that’s just a start.”
Dr. Shira Joudan did her undergraduate studies at Carleton and worked with the Smith lab group. Joudan now leads a research group at the University of Alberta and studies persistent pollutants and harmful contaminants. Joudan is currently studying reactions involving trifuoroacetic acid (TFA), its origins and sources in the environment. She hopes her research can help guide policymakers as they design regulations for TFA. To find out more on Joudan’s research, please read the C&EN highlight: 2025 Talented 12: Shira Joudan.
Dr. Alison Bain also did her undergraduate studies at Carleton and worked with the Barry lab group. Bain is now an assistant professor at Oregan State University, where she studies the properties of single, nanometer-sized aerosol particles. Some of Bain’s projects have included measuring aerosol surface tension, studying atmospheric microplastics, analyzing wood pulps with Raman spectroscopy and studying optical properties of diamond dust. To find out more on Bain’s research, please read the C&EN highlight: 2025 Talented 12: Alison Bain.
It is incredible that Canada has this prominence in this list right now, and even more impressive that Carleton had a hand in the careers of these two scientists.
To view the full C&EN Talented Twelve article visit: C&EN’s 2025 Talented 12.