Fischell Institute Black History Month Spotlight: Sofia Jackson

Sofia Jackson is a first-year chemical and biomolecular engineering (CHBE) major and a member of ChBE Professor and Chair and Fischell Fellow Peter Kofinas’ Functional Macromolecular Laboratory.

Jackson first learned about Kofinas’ research after hearing a presentation about his work on batteries and sprayable polymers for surgical applications during the Women in Engineering (WIE) RISE Summer Research Program in 2022. Curious to learn more, she reached out to Kofinas for an opportunity to gain hands-on lab experience as a homeschooled high school student.

“Working with Dr. Kofinas has been one of the greatest experiences of my life and has acted as a catalyst for my determination to succeed in my major,” Jackson said. “It has introduced me to the hands-on aspect of chemical and biomolecular engineering and has taught me many principles that I have applied not only in my research, but also in my academic coursework.”

Jackson’s current research is a collaborative project between the Kofinas lab and CHBE Assistant Professor and Fischell Affiliate Fellow Hannah Zierden’s lab. The project focuses on intrauterine adhesion prevention. Adhesions are fibrous tissue bands that form between surfaces in the body after injuries or surgical procedures as part of the healing process. Intrauterine adhesions are often caused by trauma associated with childbirth and pregnancy.

“What excites me about the work I am doing is the idea that my research can produce a future where adhesions of any kind do not pose a threat to human health, especially for women,” Jackson said. “Women should not have to suffer from the effects of adhesions, such as secondary female infertility—the inability to conceive a second child.”

After graduating, Jackson plans to pursue a Ph.D. in chemical and biomolecular engineering and continue research in pharmaceuticals and surgical care.

“It would be an absolute dream to have my own lab to teach and inspire the next generation of chemical engineers with a passion for research,” she said.

As a Black engineer, Jackson has found a sense of community within the Center for Minorities in Science and Engineering. She joined the center this past summer and was involved in the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Bridge Program, which has helped her advance both academically and professionally.

“It is important to commemorate the many Black trailblazers throughout history who have inspired change through innovation and action,” Jackson said. “Furthermore, celebrating Black History Month ensures that these names are never forgotten and empowers the next generation to succeed in a world that will constantly challenge us to surpass racial bias.”

Outside of the lab and academics, Jackson enjoys painting at Studio A in the STAMP Student Union and tap dancing as both a member and choreographer for the Terrapin Tap Troupe.

Published February 12, 2025