About the PI
Sangsuk Lee
Assistant Professor, Department of Physics and Engineering, Wheaton College
I am an engineer working on sustainable water and energy solutions through membrane processes, computational modeling, and data-driven analysis. My academic path runs through a Ph.D. in Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder with Prof. Anthony Straub, an M.S. at Carnegie Mellon University with Prof. Kelvin Gregory, and early training at Korea University with Prof. Seung Kwan Hong. Before joining Wheaton College, I was a postdoctoral researcher at UCLA with Prof. Eric Hoek, where I led projects on novel reverse osmosis system design and mass transport mechanisms in membranes. Alongside research, I enjoy physical, water, and wellness activities such as lifting, dancing, pilates, and cold plunge.
Service
Community involvement
Community service, outreach, and volunteering
Served in the Republic of Korea Navy at the Naval Headquarters, as part of the Facility Support Squadron.
Worked on a water well drilling team in Ethiopia for a year, constructing wells in rural villages.
Volunteered as a private English tutor for North Korean refugee students.
Volunteered to teach science classes by incorporating dance at local elementary schools during my Ph.D.
Volunteered with the Farm Club in Boulder, helping to manage community gardens on campus and in the city.
Volunteered to prepare and serve meals for people experiencing homelessness.
FAQs
A few questions
Personal opinions and hot takes
What is the most frequent question you receive as a water researcher?
Is tap water safe to drink?!?!
Do you prefer coffee or tea?
Coffee in the morning for an immediate wakeup and matcha in the afternoon for a mild but long-lasting effect.
What does movement mean to you in your life?
My background as an amateur powerlifter and dancer has given me a profound appreciation for movement. I'm fascinated by the intricate mechanics of how the body moves and its powerful effect on the mind.
What is your favorite quote from a scientist?
Louis Pasteur: 'Chance favors the prepared mind'