2024 Mickey Leland Energy Fellow: Julius Yoh

Julius Yoh is a rising senior at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, majoring in chemical engineering. Julius completed his Mickey Leland Energy Fellowship (MLEF) project at National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) Pittsburgh where he researched existing dispersion models to determine which model would most accurately predict the behavior of carbon dioxide plumes following a pipe rupture. The goal of Julius’ research was to determine the optimal dispersion model – a way to predict heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and chemical reactions occurring in a system – to address accidental carbon dioxide leakages in pipelines. 

Julius’ MLEF project relates to his immediate post-bachelor’s degree goals of working in the carbon capture industry to improve the efficiency of electrochemical systems. He was first enamored with science research after completing a high school project where he researched seawater desalination in an electrodialysis process. Julius’ fascination with chemical engineering combined with a motivating research mentor inspired him to continue his studies in college. When he learned about the MLEF program, he was excited about the learning opportunities available at a national lab and the ability to gain valuable literature review experience. 

Outside of academia, Julius enjoys playing chess, both in person and online! His analytical skills from chess have greatly translated to his research and academic work.