Innovative Minds: John Lee

Jackson Heights Middle School | 8th grade | 14 years old

A Novel MoS2 Electrode for Enhancing Electrochemical Hydrogen Production

About the Idea

Hydrogen (H2) can improve energy consumption by producing an alternative energy source to carbon-based fuels.

Why did you enter the 3M Young Scientist Challenge?

I have known that the 3M Young Scientist Challenge is one of the most prestigious venues to share my research. I was always interested in being a Young Scientist on the topic of renewable energy production over the past several years. I believe that the unique opportunity to work with a 3M Scientist Mentor, who can provide advice and encourage the continued efforts of technological inventions, can expand the scope of my imagination, and help me to visualize the ideas of my invention. Additionally, I will be able to brainstorm new ideas that I could potentially use in the future.

What is your favorite invention of the last 100 years, and why?

Electric cars. Before the innovation of electric cars, people relied on gas-powered automobiles for transportation. But in terms of pollution, these automobiles have deteriorated our planet due to the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere when gasoline is burnt. Electric cars, on the other hand, are powered by electricity, meaning that there’s no harmful byproduct. Electric cars provide another option of transportation, in a manner that is safe for the environment.

In 15 years I hope to be...

A Data Scientist in the field of medical sciences, physics, or chemistry. I would like to contribute to our society for a better and sustainable environment, and smart cities for generations to come.