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Caltech Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholar Recognized by the American Chemical Society for Outstanding Leadership

September 15, 2025

Caltech graduate students Chuqi Lu and Camila Suarez, and postdoctoral scholar Jacob Rothbaum, have been honored by the American Chemical Society (ACS) for their outstanding contributions to mentoring, inclusion, and research safety as part of the society's Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Scholar Recognition Program.

Since 2022, ACS has recognized outstanding graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in the chemical sciences for their leadership in three categories: mentoring, promotion of inclusion and belonging, and promotion of research safety.

Chemical sciences departments around the world with graduate or postdoctoral appointments may nominate individuals who have made outstanding contributions in any of the award's three categories.

This year's Caltech recipients are:

Chuqi Lu

PhD candidate

Research Group: Long Cai, professor of biology and biological engineering

Lu received recognition for outstanding leadership in mentoring through the ACS Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Scholar Recognition Program. Her nomination states: "Chuqi Lu has shown exceptional mentorship by training two rotation students in the Cai Lab, dedicating daily time to guide them through complex experiments and data analysis. Her thoughtful, individualized approach sets her apart and highlights her commitment to developing others."

Camila Suarez

PhD candidate

Research Group: Brian Stoltz, Victor and Elizabeth Atkins Professor of Chemistry

Suarez received recognition for outstanding leadership in inclusion and belonging through the ACS Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Scholar Recognition Program. Her nomination states that Suarez's "dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion shines through every initiative she leads. Her commitment to growth and community impact has made her a role model and a catalyst for lasting cultural change at Caltech, fully embodying the spirit of this award."

As part of her commitment to fostering inclusion and belonging, Suarez has been involved in Caltech CCE BOND, a student-driven initiative focused on building community and increasing diversity within the Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.

Jacob Rothbaum

Postdoctoral scholar research associate in Chemistry

Research Group: Ryan Hadt, professor of chemistry

Rothbaum received recognition for outstanding leadership in mentoring through the ACS Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Scholar Recognition Program. His nomination describes him as "a compassionate and technically skilled mentor who fosters a safe, inclusive lab environment. His leadership and support help students from diverse backgrounds thrive. He elevates those around him and leaves a lasting legacy of excellence, empathy, and mentorship at Caltech."