Harnessing the Power of Light: Stacy Copp

Stacy Copp is a postdoctoral fellow in Materials Physics and Applications at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Her research focuses on creating materials that emit light or interact with light by using soft molecules, like DNA and synthetic polymers, as building blocks. These materials have potential applications for biomedical diagnostics, solar energy and energy efficient lighting. The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science fellowship will provide Copp the independence to pursue her research by supporting materials and laboratory equipment costs. Because Copp is committed to ensuring that women and other underrepresented students can become successful scientists, she has prioritized mentorship and science education throughout her career. As part of her fellowship, Copp will develop hands-on demonstrations to get local K-12 students excited about science. Copp, 29, received a Ph.D. and M.A. in Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara and a B.A. in Physics at the University of Arizona. A native New Mexican, Copp lives in Albuquerque with her husband and young daughter where she enjoys running, gardening, and spending time outside with her family.