Jeffrey Horinek

Jeffrey Horinek is a 2026-2030 Self Graduate Fellow pursuing a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at the University of Kansas. Originally from Joplin, Missouri, he earned both a B.S. in Polymer Chemistry and a B.S.E.T. in Plastics Engineering Technology from Pittsburg State University in 2025. During his undergraduate studies, he conducted research in several areas, including the synthesis of novel materials for energy storage applications, the development of polyurethane carbon-fiber composites, the design of new catalysts for epoxide addition reactions, and the recycling of post-consumer polyethylene. As a member of the Teator Research Group in the Department of Chemistry, his research focuses on the development of new polymerization methods. Specifically, his current work is aimed at developing a controlled polymerization method for [1.1.1]propellane. Following the completion of his doctoral studies, he hopes to pursue a career as a research scientist in the aerospace industry, focusing on the development of next-generation low-observable materials.

Mentor:  Aaron Teator, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Chemistry.