Administrative associate supports research on sustainable refrigerants

Emily Weiss | Administrative Associate | Environmentally Applied Refrigerant Technology Hub

Research centers rely on strong staff support to bring investigators together to solve complex societal challenges. At the Environmentally Applied Refrigerant Technology Hub (EARTH), a National Science Foundation-funded Engineering Research Center based at the University of Kansas, administrative associate Emily Weiss facilitates research by keeping operations running smoothly.

Weiss joined EARTH in January 2025 after earning KU bachelor’s degrees in communication & media studies and dance. Her work helps connect researchers from KU and at least eight partner universities as they develop sustainable alternatives to hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants — chemicals that have 2,000 to 4,000 times the global-warming potential of carbon dioxide

“Emily’s professionalism and dedication elevate the center’s operations,” said Jessica Tami, EARTH research project manager.

Weiss coordinates scheduling, travel, purchasing, event planning and communication for the multi-institutional team. Her colleagues praise her strong organization, adaptability and proactive approach.

“She consistently anticipates needs, solves problems quickly and maintains a positive, collaborative attitude,” Tami said. “Her ability to balance multiple priorities while ensuring accuracy and timeliness demonstrates outstanding judgment and reliability.”

Weiss’s contributions were especially valuable during NSF site visits in March and October 2025.

“Emily went above and beyond her normal duties to ensure that the NSF EARTH annual meetings were a tremendous success,” said Mark Shifflett, Foundation Distinguished Professor of chemical & petroleum engineering and EARTH director.