Michelle Qian is a PhD candidate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a graduate of Cornell University, two of the top universities in the US. She brings world-class academic experience and cutting-edge research knowledge to inspire students to be ambitious.
Michelle Qian joins Innovate Summer Academy as a lecturer with an exceptional academic background shaped by two of the most prestigious universities in the US: Cornell University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Her journey reflects both academic excellence and a genuine passion for helping students discover what they can achieve.
Michelle completed her Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at Cornell University, where she consistently achieved Dean’s List recognition across all semesters. During her time there, she was also named a Meinig Family Cornell National Scholar and received an Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Assistant award. These achievements highlight not only her academic ability but also her early commitment to supporting and engaging other students in their learning.
She is now completing her PhD in Chemical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), one of the world’s leading institutions for science and technology. At MIT, Michelle has worked on pioneering research in advanced materials, focusing on innovative developments at the intersection of polymers and nanotechnology. Her work has contributed to publications in Nature, one of the most respected scientific journals globally, placing her at the forefront of emerging scientific discovery.
For students, Michelle’s experience at Cornell and MIT means learning from someone who understands what it takes to succeed at the highest academic levels. She has first-hand insight into studying at top universities, from developing strong problem-solving skills to maintaining motivation through challenging and competitive environments.
Alongside her research, Michelle has built extensive teaching experience across a wide range of age groups. She has taught students from early secondary level through to university, including delivering an engineering course for 12 to 13-year-olds at MIT. She has also worked as a teaching assistant and lecturer on undergraduate and postgraduate courses, covering topics such as fluid mechanics, polymer science and nanotechnology. This breadth of experience allows her to explain complex ideas in a way that is clear, engaging and accessible.
Michelle’s teaching philosophy centres on creating meaningful and inspiring learning experiences. She encourages students to ask questions, think independently and engage actively with the material. By adapting her approach to each class, she ensures that students feel both supported and appropriately challenged, helping them build confidence in their abilities.
She is also passionate about helping students think about their future pathways. Having completed one of the most demanding academic routes herself, Michelle understands the importance of resilience, motivation and finding the right support network. She encourages students to identify what drives them and to pursue their goals with determination.
At Innovate Summer Academy, Michelle offers students a unique opportunity to learn from a researcher and educator shaped by two of the world’s top universities. Her combination of academic excellence, real-world experience and enthusiasm for teaching makes her a truly inspiring mentor for the next generation of innovators.
