JSU chemistry doctoral student, Sital Dhami, was recently named a 2026 Roy G. Post Foundation Scholarship recipient by Waste Management Symposia (WM Symposia) for demonstrating excellence in nuclear waste management research, leadership, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.
WM Symposia is one of the leading international organizations focused on nuclear waste management and environmental remediation, and in addition to receiving one of the organization’s $7,500 Roy G. Post Foundation Graduate Scholarships, Dhami was invited to attend the WM2026 Conference in Phoenix, Arizona in March.
While at the conference, Dhami had the opportunity to present her research and interact with other researchers and professionals.
Dhami’s research has led her to designing layered double hydroxide (LDH)–molybdenum sulfide hybrid materials capable of removing hazardous radioactive contaminants such as chromate (CrO₄²⁻), a surrogate for technetium (TcO₄⁻), from Department of Energy (DOE) low-activity waste streams. These materials demonstrate high efficiency in capturing and immobilizing toxic ions, contributing to safer nuclear waste management and environmental protection.
Through her doctoral studies, Dhami says her professors at JSU, especially former JSU professor and researcher, Saiful M. Islam, Ph.D., played a major role in her academic growth.
“Dr. Islam provided continuous research guidance, encouraged me to participate in conferences and scientific collaborations, and motivated me to pursue competitive research opportunities such as the Roy G. Post Foundation Graduate Scholarship,” said Dhami.
Before starting her doctoral studies at JSU, Dhami earned her undergraduate degree in Chemistry from Tribhuvan University in Nepal and completed graduate-level studies in chemistry to further strengthen her research background.
“I chose Jackson State University for my Ph.D. because of the strong research opportunities, supportive faculty, and the opportunity to work on impactful projects related to environmental remediation and advanced functional materials.”
“As a JSU student, I have had valuable opportunities to present my research at conferences, collaborate with researchers from different institutions, and develop both scientific and professional skills.”
Upon completing her doctoral studies, Dhami would like to continue working in advanced materials research focused on environmental remediation, nuclear waste management, and sustainable energy storage technologies. She hopes to pursue a research career in industry or national laboratories and contribute to solving environmental and energy challenges.
“We are very proud of Sital’s achievements and her receiving this prestigious scholarship,” said Almesha Campbell, Ph.D., JSU Vice President of Research and Economic Development. “Her research is the exact kind we want our professors and students to continue to be leaders in, as it addresses real-world issues and has the potential to have a wide-reaching impact.”
For more information on the Roy G. Post Foundation and to view a full list of its 2026 scholarship award recipients, visit the organization’s website.