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Members

Principal Investigator

Dr. Joshua M. Blechle

Education:
B.S. Chemistry, Truman State University
Ph.D. Physical/Analytical Chemistry, Colorado State University

About:
As a physical and analytical chemist, my interests lie in the design and implementation of experiments which help to elucidate the fundamental interactions of complex systems. My fascination with non-thermal plasmas was developed during my graduate work and continues to be a focus of my research efforts. Plasmas provide a unique (and largely unexplored) chemical environment that have a number of controllable parameters which significantly impact the overall chemistry of the resulting system. This tunability allows for limitless areas of scientific exploration with far-reaching applications.

Hometown:
Washington, MO

Hobbies:
Craft beer, grilling, and general nerdery


Current Group Members

Bethany Yashkus

About:
I am a biochemistry major in the class of 2026. I originally came to Wilkes as a neuroscience major, however, in my second semester of taking general chemistry with Dr. Blechle, I realized that chemistry is what I am passionate about. I was eager to begin thinking about research opportunities, as I saw it as a great way to further my knowledge, especially as a new major. Dr. Blechle’s work interested me, as plasma and its applications are something that is rarely discussed. I see his research as an exciting opportunity to learn about something that is typically left out of academic curriculum.

Hometown:
Pittston Township, PA

Hobbies:
Dance/gymnastics, tennis, and watching football


Simon Farrell

About:
I am a chemistry major with a physics minor graduating in 2026. I came to Wilkes to pursue a degree in pharmacy but after taking some general chemistry courses I realized that I did not want to stop learning about chemistry. I have taken several of Dr. Blechle's classes, with the most influential being his surface chemistry course. Dr. Blechle's research gives me a chance to learn more about interesting surface chemistry topics as well as some topics I would not otherwise hear about in my undergraduate education like the properties and interactions of plasmas. I am glad to have the opportunity to be in this research group and I am excited to learn many new things from this experience.

Hometown:
Perkasie, PA

Hobbies:
Photography, backpacking, stamp carving


Morgan Schnell

About:
I am a sophomore Biochemistry and Neuroscience double major. Currently, I am an E-mentor and Bonner Leader, as well as a part of Chemistry Club. During my second semester at Wilkes, I realized that I had an interest in researching and decided I wanted to learn more about Dr. Blechle’s plasma research. I find the long term goals and applications of plasma extremely interesting, especially the biological. I cannot wait to learn more throughout my time researching at Wilkes and in this lab.

Hometown:
York, PA

Hobbies:
Reading, music, theater, watching movies, and crocheting.


Former Group Members

Darren Dolan, Ph.D. ('19)

   Graduate School: George Washington University ('25)
   Current Affiliation: MXene Inc.

Jimmy Fritz ('20)

   Current Affiliation: Saladax Biomedical

Ryan Chapman ('22)

   Current Affiliation: University of Kentucky, Graduate Student

Melanie Fouts ('23)

   Current Affiliation: Pennsylvania-American Water Company

Jeremy Vanauken ('23)

   Current Affiliation: United States Air Force

Emily Purcell ('24)

   Current Affiliation: Kawneer Company, Inc.

Mollie Corbett ('25)

   Current Affiliation: Tufts University, Graduate Student