Chemistry Alumnus Thanks UCF for International Success

Dr. Haining Wang, ’13, graduated with his Ph.D in material chemistry from UCF. While pursuing his degree, Dr. Wang wrote 23 peer-reviewed papers, two conference proceedings, and a book chapter based on his research.

Currently, Dr. Wang is a tenure-track lecturer at Beihang University in Beijing, China. He teaches an undergraduate organic chemistry class and his current research focuses on theoretical modeling in electrochemistry. For example, simulating and developing more efficient catalysts for electrochemical reactions.

Dr. Wang explained that acquiring a faculty position at a university in China is difficult. He thanks his experience and education from UCF for the opportunity in his current position.

At UCF Dr. Wang’s research covered the theoretical simulation of optical properties of noble metal nano-structures, quantum mechanics based atomistic simulation of organic semiconductors, and theoretical work of fluorescence with metal nanostructure based on a new model.

Dr. Wang encourages current students and alumni to try your best before giving up.

“During the last two years of my Ph.D. study, my supervisor asked me to develop a new theoretical model and program for a project. As a graduate student, I just thought I couldn’t do it. Many times I just wanted to give up. But we finally finished it. We developed the model and program, got all data we needed, and had the paper published. I learned so much from that experience,” said Wang.

Dr. Wang shared more on his time at UCF and his current position.

Why did you choose to attend UCF?

The chemistry faculty at UCF gave me so much support throughout my Ph.D. program. My supervisor at UCF was a talented and hard-working professor who gave me so much help and advice throughout my time at UCF.

How has your UCF degree helped you in your career?

My Ph.D. from UCF helped me acquire my current job. To be a tenure-track lecturer at a Chinese university, a Ph.D. is a basic requirement. An American degree is well respected in China and made me an outstanding applicant for my position.

Were you involved in any extracurricular activities at UCF?

I attended many International Services Center activities. They did really excellent work and helped me get involved in U.S. life.

Have you stayed involved with UCF since graduation? If so, how?

I stayed connected with some friends and professors, mostly through email since I am quite far away here in China. There are also some other UCF alumni in China and we meet up with each other when we have the chance.

What is your best UCF memory?

The experience of learning is my best memory. Learning all kinds of aspects; academic research, U.S. culture, working with different people, cooking and driving. Those are all part of my best memories at UCF.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

Working with undergraduate and graduate students at the university. We try our best to solve problems and deal with different projects.