International impact: BGSU researcher's renowned work in photochemistry draws interest from German student

Dr. Joseph Furgal’s research attracts the attention of a German doctoral student looking to bolster their education

By Branden Ferguson

As a leading researcher in the renowned Bowling Green State University Center for Photochemical Sciences, Dr. Joseph Furgal develops innovative ways to harness the power of light for beneficial applications in healthcare, agriculture and other key industries.

In recent years, the federal government has leveraged Furgal's expertise to explore the feasibility of using smart sponges to remove toxic chemicals from waterways, protect treasured national monuments from erosion and vandalism and reduce silicone waste through room-temperature recycling.

While the BGSU-based research has broad appeal, it piqued particular interest from a German doctoral student studying at the University of Würzburg, located between Frankfurt and Nuremberg, who recently traveled to Bowling Green to learn from Furgal himself.

“At my university in Germany, we are extremely interested in biodegradable materials,” University of Würzburg student Chris Fischer said. “When I started looking at different ways to recycle materials, I came across Dr. Furgal’s publication and traveled across the world to learn more from him.”

As part of his studies, Fischer has been able to take advantage of his university's affiliation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research. Recognized as a leading European hub for materials-focused research and development in energy, environment and health, the Fraunhofer Institute helped to fund Fischer's trip to BGSU, allowing him to learn from one of the leading experts in the field.

While the study of chemistry is the same in Germany as it is in the United States, research methods, expertise and approaches differ by country, particularly in photochemistry.

“I’ve been working with Dr. Furgal on his research and trying to absorb as much information as possible,” Fischer said. “While I know quite a bit about building polymers, Dr. Furgal is very knowledgeable in how to break them down. It’s amazing to have someone like him to learn from, talk to and bounce ideas off of.”

While at BGSU, Fischer is working to recreate Furgal's research on silicone recycling – or depolymerization – which, if applied at a large scale, could keep the popular material out of landfills while reducing the energy required to create new polymers. Furgal describes the experience as mutually beneficial, stating he is also using this opportunity as a learning experience.

“Working with someone from a different country has allowed me to learn more about the research differences between the two countries,” Furgal said. “I’m watching Chris go through the same process I went through while I was doing my research. He’s learning while doing, and I’m here to empower him to work through various solutions.”

As the No. 1 public university in Ohio for student experience and opportunities, BGSU is large enough to provide the resources of a comprehensive research university, but small enough for learners to embrace all it has to offer, including learning alongside world-class faculty. Fischer said it was a differentiator that he noticed immediately.

“The interaction I have with Dr. Furgal and other professors here is incredibly hands-on and supportive,” he said. “At home, while I receive great guidance, the setup is more structured. At BGSU, I feel encouraged to ask questions frequently, which has really helped me accelerate my learning."

While Furgal is used to sharing his wealth of knowledge with BGSU students, Fischer is the first visiting international doctoral student that he has had the opportunity to work with.

“I never expected my research to be this impactful,” Furgal said. “When I got the call from Chris and the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research, I was very excited. I am happy to share my knowledge and expertise with visiting students, especially with someone as passionate as Chris.”

Embracing his time at BGSU, Fischer will return home in December to share his experiences and knowledge with German researchers and fellow students. He also hopes to co-author research publications with Furgal in the future as the pair plans to continue collaborating from afar.

“When I go back to Germany, I will be taking all this knowledge and experience with me. I will stand out in the lab because of the work I did with Dr. Furgal,” Fischer said. “My experience is unique because not everyone gets to travel to the United States for academic training and research. Not only did I get to travel and learn in the U.S., I got to work hands-on with an expert in the field.”