Divya Kumar

Why FSU?

I chose FSU for its strong research environment and supportive academic community, where I saw the opportunity to explore my curiosity, embrace new challenges, and grow into an independent scientist. 

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

My biggest motivation has always been curiosity. I love asking questions and understanding not just what happens around us, but why and how it happens. The more I learn about science, the more fascinated I become.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

My research focuses on designing and synthesizing spin-crossover (SCO) materials, which are fascinating molecules that can switch between different magnetic states in response to external stimuli such as temperature, pressure, or light. What makes my work exciting is that I am exploring ways to transform these molecular materials into thin films using techniques such as sublimation, mechanical exfoliation, layer-by-layer deposition, and spin coating. The ultimate goal is to integrate these materials into functional devices, opening new possibilities for next-generation molecular electronics, magnetic memory, and smart sensing technologies. I find it exciting that something we design at the molecular level could one day contribute to the development of advanced technologies. 

Who has been influential in your graduate journey?

The most influential person in my graduate journey has been my advisor, Professor Michael Shatruk, whom I truly look up to as a role model. He constantly encourages me, motivates me to do better, and guides me through challenges. I especially appreciate how approachable, supportive, and caring he is toward his students. Having a mentor like him makes this journey feel much more meaningful.

Career aspirations

My long-term career goal is to make a meaningful contribution to the molecular electronic devices industry by helping translate innovative research into practical technologies. Along the way, I also hope to mentor and inspire younger students, encourage them to pursue science, and help them discover the excitement of understanding the world through scientific research. 

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

My advice is to pursue something you genuinely love and feel excited about, because graduate school requires consistency, hard work, and patience. Don't worry if you don't know everything about your research area; learning is part of the journey. Never be afraid to ask questions, no matter how simple or challenging they may seem, and don't hesitate to seek guidance when you need it. Stay curious, be open to learning, and most importantly, believe in yourself!

Accomplishments during graduate career

I am proud to have published first-author and co-author papers, presented my research at national and international conferences, and been invited to speak at the Women in STEM Symposium at SERMACS 2025. Serving as an M2QM Early Career Network Leader, mentoring undergraduate students, and gaining teaching experience have also been incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for the recognition I have received through several academic awards. What makes these accomplishments especially meaningful is my journey. Due to visa delays, I started my PhD a semester late and initially worried about falling behind my cohort. However, I achieved my milestones ahead of schedule and created opportunities I once only hoped for. It taught me to trust my journey, embrace challenges, and believe in myself.

Dean’s Award for Doctoral Excellence RSC Best Poster Award at the International Conference on Phase Transition and Dynamical Properties of Spin Transition Materials (PDSTM 2025, Dublin, Ireland)

Cheryl and Joel Rosenfeld Endowment Award

Organizations you are part of at FSU

Congress of Graduate Students Graduate Women in STEM ChemiMoles

Hobbies outside academics

Outside the lab, I love painting, dancing, and traveling. I enjoy exploring new places, experiencing
different cultures, and, most importantly, making beautiful memories and spending quality time
with my favorite people