Student Spotlight: Lyn Zemberekci
February 5, 2026
Lyn Zemberekci is a doctoral candidate in civil and environmental engineering from Istanbul, Turkey. She earned her previous degrees at Sabanci University and Ozyegin University, both in Istanbul, and now studies cement chemistry and subsurface infrastructure conditions under the guidance of Sriramya Nair at Cornell.
What is your area of research and why is it important?
My research is on cement chemistry and designing materials that can withstand subsurface infrastructure conditions. Particularly, I study the chemical phases that develop in heterogeneous systems when exposed to high temperature and pressure over time. Understanding this complex chemical behavior is a step toward engineering enhanced building materials.
What are the larger implications of this research?
The larger implication of my research is understanding and increasing the durability and performance of materials used in infrastructure. The goal is to safely access renewable energy in a subsurface environment, and, at the same time, ensuring structural integrity to prevent potential catastrophic consequences like releasing greenhouse gases to the atmosphere (i.e., methane and carbon dioxide).
What inspired you to choose this field of study?
Perhaps a cliché answer, but I wanted to bridge knowledge I gained during my undergrad and my master’s and that was at the intersection of materials science and civil engineering.
How did being president of the Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) Graduate Student Association (GSA) shape your graduate school experience?
It was inspiring to be surrounded by the CEE GSA board and the CEE community in settings that stretched beyond scientific endeavor. I’m grateful for moments that taught me how to navigate relationships with community members at any level, to listen and speak up for my colleagues, and to cater inclusive events that fostered a sense of belonging. I believe a leadership role is worth a graduate student’s time! You gain experience that prepares you for future roles as an academic or a Ph.D.-level industry professional.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of your research or scholarship?
Reading, jigsaw puzzles, and swimming.
Why did you choose Cornell to pursue your degree?
I chose Cornell because my advisor’s research interests aligned greatly with what I envisioned would be the next step in my academic career. Also, Cornell’s great effort in demonstrating the prospective student experience in Ithaca and safety measures despite the pandemic (matriculated Spring ’21).