UROP Leader Information Submission: Submission #298

Submission information
Submission Number: 298
Submission ID: 22299
Submission UUID: 61d6a07c-f1a1-4f56-97bb-cfec194415f5

Created: Sat, 04/18/2026 - 03:27 PM
Completed: Sat, 04/18/2026 - 03:28 PM
Changed: Sat, 04/18/2026 - 03:28 PM

Remote IP address: 172.59.70.237
Submitted by: Anonymous
Language: English

Is draft: No
John
Polisknowski
Jr Polisknowski
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Tampa, fl, USA
jrp25d@fsu.edu
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Mechanical engineering
Math, Physics, Art
2028
My current research focuses on high-temperature hydrogen effects in refractory metals. We expose materials such as niobium and tantalum to hydrogen in controlled furnace environments to study how elevated temperatures influence oxide stability, surface chemistry, and hydrogen uptake. The goal is to understand how hydrogen reduces protective oxide layers and alters material behavior, which is critical for applications in hydrogen turbine systems.
I have also studied hydrogen engine systems, including work conducted at Tallahassee State College. This involved exploring how hydrogen is used as a fuel, as well as the design and operation of hydrogen turbines and engines, with a focus on efficiency, materials compatibility, and high-temperature performance in hydrogen-based energy systems. I have also studied crystal structures in materials, focusing on how atomic arrangement and bonding influence properties such as strength, diffusion, and chemical reactivity, especially under extreme conditions like high temperature and hydrogen exposure.
How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader?
I hope to impact my UROP students by inspiring them to pursue their goals with confidence and curiosity. I want to encourage them to take initiative, explore research opportunities, and push beyond their comfort zones. By sharing my experiences and supporting their growth, I aim to motivate them to go out and achieve what they truly want.
I am a member of the fencing club and car club at FSU, where I enjoy both the competitive and community aspects of each. I also participate in autocross events with my car, which allows me to develop my driving skills and engage with the motorsports community. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, reading, and photography, particularly capturing landscapes and natural scenes.
jr.jpg
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2026
No
https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=_qd2hqiAwfnIIL-MAck6xnvBXAPSpHnOEdxrHF_5Pq8
2024-2025 and 2025-2026