Rising Chemical Engineering Senior Ajani Moss Receives Howard University Libraries STEM Award for Sustainable Energy Research

For Ajani Moss, a rising chemical engineering senior, research is more than an academic exercise—it is an opportunity to create solutions for some of the world's most pressing environmental challenges. Through award-winning scholarship, published research, and nationally recognized presentations, Moss is establishing himself as a promising leader in providing innovative solutions for renewable and sustainable energy. 

Under the mentorship of Cristiano Reis, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemical engineering, Moss has focused his research on developing innovative approaches to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. His work investigated the partial oxidation of low-concentration methane into methanol through methanotrophic bioprocesses, a process that aims to transform a harmful greenhouse gas into a valuable chemical feedstock. The research reflects his commitment to advancing technologies that address environmental challenges while creating practical and sustainable solutions. 

Moss's scholarship recently earned one of Howard University's highest undergraduate research distinctions. He was named recipient of the Howard University Libraries Undergraduate Research Award in STEM, becoming the top honoree among all STEM submissions. 

In a letter announcing the award, Danica E. White of Howard University Libraries praised Moss's project as representing a high level of undergraduate research excellence. According to the award notification, his work demonstrated exceptional inquiry, sophisticated source integration, ethical engagement with information, and a meaningful contribution to knowledge.  

"Receiving the Howard University Libraries Undergraduate Research Award in STEM affirmed my passion for research and showed me that dedication and persistence can lead to meaningful impact," Moss said. "This recognition also reflects the mentorship and support at Howard University that have encouraged me to grow as a scholar and pursue my passion for sustainable energy." 

Building on his work with Reis, Moss co-authored a peer-reviewed publication in the journal Processes, titled "Methanotrophic Technologies for Low-Concentration Methane: Reactor Designs and Performance." The publication explores reactor technologies and performance considerations for methane conversion systems and contributes to the growing body of research focused on greenhouse gas mitigation and sustainable energy production. 

The experience of conducting publishable research as an undergraduate deepened Moss's appreciation for scientific inquiry and highlighted the collaborative environment within Howard University's College of Engineering and Architecture. 

Moss's research excellence has also been recognized through Howard University's Dow Scholars’ Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program, from which he received the award for Best Overall Poster Presentation. His ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively distinguished his work among student researchers from across the university. 

Earlier this year, Moss received a travel award to present his work at the American Chemical Society's Green Chemistry & Engineering Conference in San Antonio, Texas. The opportunity enabled him to engage with leading scientists, engineers, and industry professionals dedicated to developing environmentally responsible technologies and sustainable manufacturing processes. 

This summer, Moss continues building his research portfolio through the prestigious Summer Undergraduate Research Diversity (SURD) Program at the University of California, Berkeley. As part of his appointment at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's Balsara Lab, he is conducting research focused on electrochemical energy and battery technologies—an experience that broadens his expertise in renewable energy systems and next-generation energy storage. 

Through each of these opportunities, Moss has remained focused on a larger purpose: leveraging engineering and scientific innovation to create sustainable solutions that benefit communities both locally and globally. Inspired and supported by the mentorship and opportunities available at Howard, he hopes to help advance technologies that address energy and environmental challenges for future generations. 

With his research work in converting greenhouse gases into useful products and advancing battery technologies, as well as publishing a peer-reviewed paper, Moss exemplifies the excellence, curiosity, and impact that define Howard University's next generation of scholars. His growing list of accomplishments demonstrates how undergraduate research can drive innovation while preparing students to tackle the complex sustainability challenges facing the world.