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Cody O’Brien, a civil and environmental engineering scholar at Florida State University in the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, investigates how building materials can incorporate invasive species as an additive, thereby enhancing the strength of construction materials while simultaneously addressing an environmental concern.
As a participant of the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and a recipient of an IDEA Grant, he has had the chance to refine and evaluate these concepts further.
O’Brien was attracted to FSU’s lively campus atmosphere, research and networking possibilities, and its proximity to downtown Tallahassee and the Florida Capitol. He leverages his research to connect with the community by supporting legislation aimed at preserving the environment. He contributes to the Big Bend region by teaching younger students about environmental significance and participating in environment-focused community service initiatives.
What drew you to Florida State University?
Florida State University first captivated me with its vibrant campus and social environment. Located at Innovation Park, the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering maintains strong ties with research institutions like the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, the High-Performance Materials Institute, and the Resilient Infrastructure & Disaster Response Center, providing me numerous opportunities to advance my engineering and research journey. Florida State offers diverse research opportunities for undergraduates, through initiatives like UROP and the IDEA Grant. Additionally, there are myriad chances to gain community service experience, which I have pursued via the Environmental Service Program and Surfrider. I’ve also found employment with FSU, serving as a tutor at the ACE Learning Studio.
What are some of your most significant academic accomplishments at FSU?
I was part of the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, collaborating with FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Professor Sungmoon Jung, a graduate student, and two undergraduates to design, produce, and analyze clay bricks enhanced with minimal amounts of algae. We observed an enhancement in strength and are moving towards publication.
In the summer of 2024, I finalized an IDEA Grant project with Associate Professor Qian Zhang in the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. I executed the first recorded extraction of cellulose nanocrystals from the invasive algae species Sargassum muticum, often referred to as Japanese wireweed. I studied these extracts using transmission electron microscopy and other techniques and compiled these findings in an article that is awaiting submission to The Owl, the undergraduate research journal of FSU.
How have you participated in the Tallahassee and FSU community?
Through the Surfrider Foundation, an environmental organization dedicated to safeguarding the world’s oceans, I joined the 2023 Coastal Recreation Hill Day, where we engaged with state legislators at the Florida Capitol to discuss important environmental and water-related legal matters. The two bills we endorsed were later passed that year. As a result of our efforts, Floridians are benefiting from enhanced environmental and water protections.
Additionally, via the Environmental Service Program at FSU, I became involved in numerous environment-focused community service projects in the Big Bend area. These projects encompassed invasive species eradication, native plant conservation, habitat rehabilitation, beach and park cleanup/maintenance, water monitoring, and educational outreach.
I actively participate in the newly formed Astronomy Club at FSU, where we organize dark-sky events during notable astronomical phenomena. I take pleasure in bringing my telescope and engaging in public outreach activities.
How has your research and community service positively influenced students in Tallahassee?
I am hopeful that my findings in nanocellulose extraction from Sargassum muticum could pave the way for further exploration into sustainable applications of invasive plant species. As of this year, another student at FSU is continuing investigations into nanocellulose extraction and testing.
One of the standout community service initiatives I took part in was establishing a native species garden at a school in Wakulla County. Projects like this will contribute to ensuring that conservation efforts are passed down to future generations.
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