SoftMatter@interfaces

Known as "forever chemicals" and widespread in our daily life, PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are extremely stubborn and resistant to breaking down, persisting in the environment or the biological system. The molecular origin lies in their strong carbon-fluorine bonds. Jia's passion is to seek alternative molecules to replace PFAs in their key applications, especially in firefighting foams, for which she is currently exploring synergistic combinations of more benign fluorine-free surfactants and polymers.

 

From the historic city of Xi’an, Jia says that she is naturally drawn to all things mystical— tarot cards or ancient astrology, and even chemistry! Jia is trusted to look after group's precious quartz cuvettes for neutron scattering. She is currently counting the days before her very own SANS experiment at ISIS Larmor. 

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Before starting her PhD (jointly funded by the China Scholarship Council and University of Bristol), Jia completed a master's degree in Nottingham (yes, famous for the mystical legendary outlaw Robin Hood). She also worked with Professor emeritus Julian Eastoe in her1st year.