Rachel Baker, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, has been recognized as one of "5 Women 
and Girls in STEM to Watch" by AMA Insider. This prestigious recognition highlights Baker's innovative work in developing sustainable chemical processes.
The AMA Insider article spotlights women who are "inspiring the next generation and making the future of STEM look bright." Baker's research focuses on pioneering new methods for producing essential chemicals, found in everyday products from medicine to manufacturing, without relying on fossil fuels.
Rachel Baker joined Smith Engineering in 2023 as the inaugural Robins Family Professor of Engineering Chemistry, a professorship endowed by DavosPharma founder and Kingston native Barry Robins, Sc’64.
Researchers in Baker's lab are utilizing electricity and biomass from trees and plants to create hydrocarbons, alcohols, and aldehydes, significantly reducing environmental impact. Her work also explores transforming carbon dioxide into valuable resources, effectively turning waste into useful compounds. By pushing the boundaries of electrochemistry, Baker is paving the way for a future where chemical production is not only sustainable but potentially carbon-negative.
"It's an honor to be recognized among such inspiring women in STEM," says Baker. "This recognition motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of sustainable chemical engineering and to inspire the next generation of engineers to tackle the world's most pressing challenges."
In addition to being named to this list, Baker was recently recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 North America 2025 honoree, further solidifying her position as a rising star in the field of chemical engineering.
The Department of Chemical Engineering is incredibly proud of Rachel Baker's achievements and her commitment to sustainable innovation. Her work exemplifies the department's dedication to cutting-edge research that addresses critical global issues.
Read more here: https://amainsider.com/women-and-girls-in-stem/