As an R&D Manager at Lyten specializing in polymer composites, Saemi explores new ways to strengthen and refine the tools we use every day—pushing boundaries through experimentation, testing, and creative thinking. From the lab bench to the classroom, she’s committed to making science more impactful and accessible. Her work on structural adhesives harnessing 3D graphene is just one example of how curiosity and collaboration can spark real-world change.
A Day in the Lab
What does a typical day in your role look like?
I oversee thermoset R&D, where I manage multiple product areas that span different stages of development. A typical day might involve anything from running design of experiments to mechanical testing or meeting with customers to integrate their feedback into our formulations. As a product moves closer to market readiness, I work closely with cross-functional teams to make sure our technical work aligns with business needs. No two days look the same, but they all involve thinking critically, problem-solving creatively, and keeping a lot of moving pieces aligned.
The Path to Research & Development
I hold a PhD in organic and materials chemistry and have over 13 years of experience spanning academic research and industrial product development. I’ve worked on areas ranging from smart materials to cleaning product formulation to display technologies to polymer composites. That foundation in polymer science – and the experience of taking ideas from lab to production – has helped me lead R&D efforts with a balance of scientific rigor and real-world applicability.
I originally wanted to become a medical doctor to save lives. But as an international student from Korea, I realized that wasn’t a viable path during college. At the urging of my organic chemistry professor, I took on a summer research internship and it completely shifted my perspective. I realized I could still make a difference by developing materials that enable safer, lighter, and more efficient products. These days, what keeps me inspired is watching how science sparks curiosity, especially in kids. My husband and I are both scientists, and we volunteer in our daughter’s classroom—this year, we did hands-on science demos for the entire second grade. Seeing their eyes light up brings it all full circle.
Most people assume I’m always in the lab, but a lot of my work is actually about communication. Whether I’m translating test results into customer insights or aligning goals across teams, it takes as much storytelling as it does science. Being able to connect the dots—and get everyone on the same page—is one of the most underrated parts of what I do.
I believe in zooming out when things get tough. Looking at the big picture and reminding myself why the work matters. I also believe in the power of communication and brainstorming; often the best ideas come when we bring different perspectives together. And outside of work, I recharge by running, hiking, and spending time with my family. There’s something about moving your body or being in nature that resets your mindset.
Science with Impact
What is your proudest achievement in your career?
One of my proudest moments was delivering a technical solution that directly addressed a long-standing customer pain point. It wasn’t just about solving the problem, but it was how we got there – through collaboration, open communication, and a resilient team mindset.
How has your work or research helped drive discovery, innovation, or impact?
I develop structural adhesives that are designed to perform in demanding environments, and a big part of that work has involved exploring the potential of 3D graphene in thermoset materials. It actually started with a simple question during a brainstorming session: Can we unlock the benefits of 3D graphene in adhesives? From there, we began experimenting, optimizing, and scaling. Now, we have an adhesive platform that brings real performance gains. For me, innovation often starts with curiosity and a willingness to test ideas that may not have an immediate answer.
The Power of Science and Community
What does the power of science and community mean to you?
Science gives us the tools to understand and improve the world. Community gives us the support to keep going when the work gets hard. When those two come together, we get innovation that’s not only impactful, but inclusive and lasting. Whether I’m collaborating with my team or volunteering in a classroom, I see the strength of that connection every day.
How has science shaped your sense of community—and how has community supported your journey?
My path through science has been defined by people – mentors, colleagues, friends – who encouraged me to keep asking questions and to trust my voice. In return, I try to create that same sense of support and curiosity for others, especially younger generations. Outreach is a small but meaningful way I stay grounded in why I do what I do.
To a Future Scientist Just Starting Out
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?
You don’t have to have it all figured out. Science is a journey of asking better questions, learning from mistakes, and building relationships that support your growth. Don’t be afraid to explore different directions—you might discover something more exciting than you originally imagined.
What message would you share with future scientists about the power they hold to make a difference?
If things ever feel slow or hard, don’t hesitate to explore outside your comfort zone—look at adjacent fields, connect with different people, ask different questions. That’s often where the breakthroughs happen. Science gives you the tools to make a difference, but it’s your willingness to keep learning and adapting that makes the impact real.
What would you tell your younger self?
I’d say, “Don’t be afraid to fail—just fail well.” What feels like failure in the moment often turns into the best learning experience. Every dead-end, unexpected result, or rejection has shaped the scientist I am today. I’ve learned to stay curious, stay positive, and keep going. Perseverance and perspective will take you further than you think.