Graduate Student Spotlight: Mirela Artner

In Forest Biomaterials, we believe that our incredible student and faculty community is what sets us apart from other programs. We feel privileged to work with and empower exceptional students. In the following student spotlights, we will be highlighting our newest masters and doctoral students.

Mirela Artner is from Canoinhas – Santa Catarina in Brazil and finished her undergraduate studies at the Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina – Brazil, in 2016 with a degree in Chemistry. She then worked for three years in the chemicals industry. After this, she completed a Masters in Material Science in 2020 from the Universidade Federal do Parana – Brazil. She is now in her first year of graduate school here at NC State, pursuing a Ph.D. in Forest Biomaterials. She will be working with Dr. Lavoine to research renewable nanomaterials for the design of biodegradable and barrier multilayer food packaging. We recently had the chance to catch up with Mirela and ask her about some of her experiences here at NC State.

Why did you choose to pursue a graduate degree in Forest Biomaterials?

I chose to pursue a graduate degree for several reasons. I am deeply interested in bio-based materials. I also wanted to continue spreading my wings while also developing high-performance renewable materials from natural resources.

What is your favorite thing about Forest Biomaterials and the College of Natural Resources?

I love getting to work with people from different backgrounds.

What is your favorite thing about NC State?

I love the wealth of cultural diversity here at State.

What advice would you give to an incoming graduate student?

Be inquisitive, persistent and optimistic.

What has been your biggest challenge as a graduate student?

As graduate students, we often face isolation, but it is always important to create connections and network beyond the lab’s doors.

Outside of your studies, what do you enjoy doing?

I enjoy being in touch with my good friends, even if it is just by FaceTime ( pandemic times)