Described as a talented and committed researcher, Huyen was praised not only for her technical expertise but also for her ability to make science accessible and inclusive.
Huyen’s research addresses antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR claims over a million lives annually and is projected to endanger 39 million more by 2050. While the World Health Organisation has called for urgent action, the development of new drugs remains a slow and complex process.
Under her doctoral training with Dr Nacho Martin-Fabiani, the group targets AMR at one of its origins, contaminated surfaces. By designing smarter coatings, the team aims to reduce hospital-acquired infections and mitigate resistance without relying on chemical modifications.
Our engineering experts reimagine coatings as customisable tools for healthcare, harnessing the unique potential of size segregation science and small molecule additives. Publishable data contributing to Huyen’s thesis demonstrates how leveraging these additives enables the development of multi-functional coatings with applications in healthcare, controlled drug delivery, and beyond.
This innovation not only supports AMR research and development but also aligns with the global waterborne coatings market, projected to reach $97.6 billion by 2030, showcasing the immense potential for sustainable, impactful solutions.
Looking ahead, Huyen is committed to addressing the multifaceted challenges surrounding sustainable science. Her future plans include advancing her research while mentoring underrepresented groups and driving multidisciplinary projects that bridge academia and industry. She is passionate about advocating for women’s safety and equity in STEM fields, ensuring that future generations of researchers can thrive in inclusive and supportive environments.
On receiving the award, Huyen commented: "This achievement is a testament to the excellence of women in STEM at Loughborough University. It not only celebrates my research, but also the University’s ongoing commitment to advancing diversity, innovation and sustainability. It highlights the power of humanising science. It’s not always just about data and results but about recognising the lived experiences behind researchers who shape societal values beyond the lab."