Iron and iodine deficiencies remain among the most widespread global micronutrient deficiencies, with the highest burden in low- and middle- income countries. Current methods to address this issue, such as encapsulation of iron premixes and coating of polymer matrices, require complex multi-step processing, increase production costs, and provide limited control over nutrient release after ingestion. However, iron-based metal-organic frameworks (iron-MOFs) offer a promising alternative by integrating high iron content, tunable coordination chemistry, and a porous structure capable of hosting iodine species. This project aims to understand how ligand chemistry governs key performance attributes of iron-MOFs, including storage stability, iron-iodine compatibility, framework degradation, and nutrient release in GI tract. Establishing these structure-property relationships will enable the rational design of MOF-based fortification systems and support the development of more stable and effective micronutrient delivery platforms.

Through this SuperUROP program, I hope to work towards greater research independence, strengthen my technical skill set, and provide a pathway to translate fundamental materials design into practical solutions for global health challenges.