Our Group

Lucia completed her BSc and PhD in Chemistry at McMaster University, working under the guidance of Prof. I. Vargas-Baca. Her doctoral research focused on developing oligomeric systems utilizing main group secondary bonding interactions.

In 2017, she embarked on her first postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Geneva, Switzerland, where she explored the applications of these interactions in ion transport. Following her time in Geneva, Lucia joined the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel. There, she expanded her research scope to include the study of MRI imaging probes and nanomaterials.

Her current research interests center on fundamental studies of main group supramolecular interactions.

Favourite Element: Selenium

Accelerated MSc. Student: 20jbd2@queensu.ca

In 2023 I joined the Lee Group as a second year student through the USSRF grant. I stayed throughout my undergrad eventually becoming an accelerated MSc. student where my project looked at incorporating chalcogen bonding into biological systems. This work is continuing as I continue through grad school. 

When I’m not running synthesis I like to play video games and hang with my friends. 

Favourite Element: Nitrogen

PhD. Student: 25ybw@queensu.ca

I joined the Lee Group as a Ph.D. student in late 2025. I completed my Master’s degree in Chemistry at IIT Madras, India. My research focuses on the design and synthesis of organic materials capable of forming chalcogen-bonding networks, with the goal of developing smart, sustainable, and functional materials.

Outside the lab, I enjoy watching cricket, exploring hiking trails, and spending time with friends.

Favourite Element: Uranium 

MSc. Student: 18dr12@queensu.ca

I joined the Lee Group in 2023 for my CHEM497 Research Project which involved developing stimuli-responsive materials able to form chalcogen bonds. Now as a MSc. student I have been continuing similar research synthesizing compounds that form chalcogen bonds with applications in green materials.

Outside the lab, you can find me kicking a ball around or at the squash courts!

Favourite Element: Platinum

MSc. Student: ciara.strom@queensu.ca

I joined the Lee Group as a CHEM497 student in 2023 and now as a MSc. student I am continuing the work I did in my fourth-year project. My research focuses on developing and synthesizing selenium containing molecules that can bind to anions via chalcogen bonds.

When I’m not in the lab I like to bake and do puzzles.

Favourite Element: Gold

CHEM497 Student

Favourite Element: Fermium

CHEM497 Student

Favourite Element: Nitrogen

CHEM497 Student

Favourite Element: Phosphorus

CHEM497 Student

Favourite Element: Sodium

CHEM497 Student

Favourite Element: Magnesium