Tylon Kondowe
O'Fallon
Summary
Detail-oriented undergraduate with expertise in Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Proven ability to conduct thorough research. Extensive teaching experience.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
NSF REU Researcher – Condensed Matter
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY
05.2026 - 08.2026
- Conducted full-time summer research in experimental condensed matter physics.
- Fabricated thin-film devices using Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD).
- Prepared samples for fabrication and electrical characterization.
- Performed impedance spectroscopy and electrical measurements to characterize material and device properties.
- Analyzed experimental data using MATLAB.
- Presented research findings through oral presentations and a poster.
Undergraduate Research Assistant – Nanomaterials
Illinois State University
Normal, IL
08.2025 - Current
- Conducted undergraduate research on nanomaterials and semiconductor devices under faculty supervision.
- Investigated the fabrication of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) nanopatterns through Sequential Infiltration Synthesis (SIS) of polystyrene-block-poly(methyl methacrylate) (PS-b-PMMA) block copolymer thin films.
- Performed spin coating, thermal annealing, and SIS using trimethylaluminum (TMA) and tri(tert-pentoxy)silanol (TPS) precursors to produce feature-size-invariant SiO₂ nanostructures.
- Characterized fabricated samples using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy.
- Presented research findings at the ISU research symposium.
Teaching Assistant
Illinois State University
Normal, IL
01.2024 - Current
- Taught the laboratory portion of general education physics courses.
- Guided students through laboratory procedures and data analysis.
- Graded lab reports.
Physics Club-Treasurer and Vice President
Illinois State University
08.2025 - Current
- Managed the organization's finances and maintained financial records.
- Raised $380 dollars during a Dominos fundraiser.
- Raised $210 dollars during a Krispy Kreme fundraiser.
- Promoted to Vice President in 2026.
- Helped organize club meetings, outreach activities, and student events.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Physics
Illinois State University
Normal, IL05-2027
Skills
- Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD)
- Cleanroom procedures
- Thin-film fabrication
- Sample preparation
- Optical microscopy
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
- Electrical characterization
- Public Speaking
Timeline
NSF REU Researcher – Condensed Matter
University of Rochester
05.2026 - 08.2026
Undergraduate Research Assistant – Nanomaterials
Illinois State University
08.2025 - Current
Physics Club-Treasurer and Vice President
Illinois State University
08.2025 - Current
Teaching Assistant
Illinois State University
01.2024 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Physics
Illinois State University