The Ruyle lab is excited to welcome Noel and Sasha, two new PhD students starting Fall 2025!
Noel is interested in the fate and transport of organic contaminants in natural systems, and how these processes have been influenced over time by climate change and shifts in human behavior. Before joining the Ruyle Lab, Noel received his BS in Chemical Engineering from Texas A&M University and his MS in Environmental Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley. During his MS, he researched the use of a subsurface wetland system to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from wastewater using various sorbents, with the goal of improving potable water reuse. Outside the lab, he enjoys volleyball, playing the piano, and keeping up with his Japanese language studies.
Alexandra (Sasha) Visek received her Bachelors of Science in Chemistry with a Specialization in Environmental Chemistry from the University of Virginia in December 2024. She is a Virginia native and grew up just outside of Washington, D.C. During undergrad she volunteered as a Firefighter and EMT and was a part of the Alpha Chi Sigma Chemistry Co-ed Fraternity. In undergrad her research focused on the role of minor cannabinoids in inhibiting fatty-acid binding protein expression and was able to use various microbiology techniques to purify and mutate proteins. Between graduation and starting at NYU she worked as a Staff Scientist at S.S. Papadopulos & Associates (SSP&A) consulting on environmental and water resource issues. She focused primarily on issues related to PFAS-contamination. She has a strong interest in understanding the widespread impacts of PFAS-contamination and particularly the impacts it has on public health. During her time at SSP&A she also volunteered with the National Parks Service at Arlington House in Arlington National Cemetery. In her free time she enjoys hiking, skiing, fishing, and trying new recipes! A fun fact about her is that she enjoys trying new hot sauce flavors and has a growing collection.