Gerald Ciani

While visiting his brother on Florida State University’s campus, Department of Chemistry student Gerald Ciani knew FSU was the place for him. Looking for an R1 university, Ciani admired the academic culture and looked forward to participating in multiple FSU laboratories.

While attending FSU, he conducted research in two labs and supported other STEM students through the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE). As a learning assistant and STEM Student Support Specialist, Ciani has helped learning communities across campus by making STEM resources more accessible and understandable. Ciani is currently a doctoral student in Yale University’s chemistry department studying inorganic materials chemistry.

Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?

As a Floridian striving to obtain a higher education, attending a state university with an R1 research designation was my dream. With the added benefit of my older brother being an alumnus of the College of Fine Arts, I had the opportunity to explore both Tallahassee and FSU at an early age. Through many impromptu campus tours led by my brother, I quickly fell in love with the community, scenery and stature of FSU. As a student eager to pursue chemistry, the possibility of conducting research at both the FSU Chemical Science Laboratories (CSL) and the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab) was exciting. Ultimately, there was no better choice than FSU for my undergraduate degree.

What FSU research accomplishments are most significant to you?

Two of my most significant research accomplishments at Florida State University came from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. In the Shatruk Research Group, I focused on studying the magnetic and electronic properties of solid-state compounds. Understanding these properties is essential for developing advanced materials used in technologies such as spintronics devices, topological quantum computing and magnetic sensing/storage.

Additionally, in the Kudisch Lab, I investigated how light interacts with special materials to help create better, more eco-friendly chemical reactions. This work supports the development of more efficient and sustainable chemical reactions powered by light, paving the way for cleaner and more energy-efficient technologies.

Through undergraduate research, I have built meaningful connections with mentors and peers that have deepened my understanding and broadened my opportunities in the field of chemistry. As a result, I have been able to present my work at conferences and contribute to future publications, furthering my development as a scientist and advancing my career.

How have you contributed to the FSU community and beyond?

Beyond the classroom, my most significant contributions at FSU include my roles as both a STEM Student Support Specialist at ACE and a learning assistant for general chemistry. Both roles have reinforced my passion for mentorship and commitment to empowering others through education.

As a student support specialist, I played a pivotal role in supporting STEM and STEM-interested students. My work ranged from offering one-on-one peer consultations to leading workshops on career pathways and the use of artificial intelligence in the classroom.

In my role as a learning assistant for general chemistry, I facilitated group discussions and encouraged collaborative learning to help students grasp complex chemical concepts. This experience allowed me to build a supportive academic community, emphasizing persistence and curiosity in STEM fields.

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