Kaitlyn Mahoney is a first-year Ph.D. student in Environmental Engineering at the University of Connecticut, where she is conducting research on the intersection of urban development and climate science. Under the mentorship of Dr. Abi Lawal, Kaitlyn is currently studying how the urban heat island effect influences ozone levels in cities—research that could inform smarter strategies for combating climate change and improving air quality.

A UConn alumna, Kaitlyn earned her undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering, where she conducted senior-year research focused on mobile air pollution monitoring. She also gained hands-on industry experience as a process engineering intern at Unilever in summer 2024. Her early exposure to both research and industrial applications fueled her decision to pursue a Ph.D., a choice made even more clear after meeting her current advisor and aligning her interests with UConn’s strong graduate research environment.

Kaitlyn’s connection to the university dates back to high school, when a visit to the campus inspired her long-term academic goals. Already experienced in leadership from previous roles, she joined the John Lof Leadership Academy (JLLA) to further sharpen her skills and prepare for real-world impact beyond the lab.

As a first-year JLLA member, Kaitlyn has embraced every opportunity to learn and contribute. She participates in organizing team workshops and serves on the Outreach Committee, which is currently identifying ways to extend the Academy’s service efforts and presence in the broader community. “We want to practice what we preach,” she says, “and show who we are as both a group and as individuals.”

Looking ahead, Kaitlyn aims to complete and publish her research, while continuing to expand her leadership capabilities. She credits JLLA with giving her the confidence to pursue more leadership roles and a deeper understanding of how to make a difference—scientifically and socially.