Jing-Jing Shen ('19)

Jing-Jing Shen (Class of 2019) is making waves in the field of renewable energy as a Fulbright Scholar in Denmark. With a dual degree in chemistry and government from Harvard University, Jing-Jing has taken her expertise to the Technical University of Denmark. Here, she is engaged in a year-long research project focusing on solid oxide fuel cells for clean electricity production.

Jing-Jing’s interest in renewable energy began as a student at Beachwood High School. Her curiosity about putting solar panels on windows led to her first research project in clean energy, developing transparent solar cells in a chemistry lab at Case Western Reserve University. This early exploration set the stage for her ongoing mission: to harness science and policy in making clean energy accessible worldwide.

Shaping a Brighter Future

As an undergraduate, Jing-Jing stood out for her contributions to scientific research and civic engagement. She investigated energy technologies at world-renowned labs, including Harvard, Argonne National Laboratory, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Beyond her academic pursuits, she volunteered at the national Crisis Text Line, a nonprofit that offers free mental health support and crisis intervention. As chair of the Harvard Public Opinion Project, Jing-Jing led the creation of two nationwide surveys of young Americans, resulting in briefings with the press and President Biden at the White House. Jing-Jing culminated her senior year by writing two theses: one investigating electrocatalysts and another examining how policy shapes research priorities.

These experiences are guiding her work as a Fulbright Scholar, where Jing-Jing is drawn to Denmark’s energy innovation, commitment to sustainability, and focus on well-being. “Studying renewable energy feels incredibly motivating and purposeful,” she says. “With its impact on everything from air pollution to energy poverty, bringing to life reliable energy for everyone is among humanity’s most pressing challenges.”

Finding Her Voice

Jing-Jing credits her love of learning to the supportive community at Beachwood Schools, which she attended from preschool to 12th grade. “Growing up in the Beachwood Schools community taught me to stay curious, to learn widely, and to be inspired by others and their stories,” she says. “I am grateful for the kind and caring teachers at the heart of the schools, who brought so much joy to classes and encouraged each student to persevere, be thoughtful, and remain inquisitive.”

At Beachwood High School, Jing-Jing thrived amid the camaraderie of her cross-country team, sharpened her problem-solving and critical thinking skills in Science Olympiad, and seized leadership opportunities in the student council. “Beachwood helped me find my voice,” she says, “to not just learn about important issues but also harness my energy to do something about them.”

As she looks to the future, Jing-Jing is set to continue her research while pursuing a Ph.D. in chemistry at Stanford University. Her ultimate goal is to become a professor, policy advisor, and advocate dedicated to furthering clean energy technologies, particularly in regions facing energy poverty and humanitarian needs.

Her advice to current students? “Try to discover your personal light to make the world a little brighter. You have a unique contribution, so believe in yourself, work hard, and seek to empower others along the way – you never know the magnitude of the impact you could have.”