The Renewable Energy Scholarship Foundation (RESF) continues its mission to empower the next generation of clean energy leaders by supporting students who are making tangible contributions to sustainability and renewable technologies.
In its latest round of awards, in 2025, the foundation proudly awarded scholarships to two outstanding students whose work in renewable energy and community service reflects the foundation’s core mission. Their efforts show how young people are helping create a cleaner, more sustainable future through research, innovation, and real-world impact.
The foundation was established in 2016 and supports students in science, engineering, policy, law, and economics who are committed to sustainable energy research in the Pacific region. To date, RESF has awarded scholarships to over 150 students, empowering a new generation of green innovators.
The two 2025 Renewable Energy Scholarship Foundation awardees are:
Tata Serebryany
Tata Serebryany is a first-year Ph.D. student in chemical engineering at the University of Washington. He was selected for the prestigious Schneider Electric Scholarship, valued at $7,000, in recognition of his groundbreaking research in catalytic upcycling of plastic waste.
His work focuses on developing chemical processes that convert single-use plastics into high-value fuels and other sustainable materials. This research addresses two major environmental challenges: plastic pollution and the need for cleaner energy sources.
By transforming waste into useful products through efficient catalytic methods, Tata is contributing to the circular economy which is a core principle of sustainable development.
Tata's approach is deeply interdisciplinary, blending chemical engineering, environmental science, and material science. His commitment to environmental solutions extends beyond the lab, as he also engages in community outreach and promotes education about sustainability in engineering.
Mathangi Venkatesh
Mathangi Venkatesh, a senior undergraduate student in chemical engineering at the University of Washington, received a $1,000 RESF Scholarship in 2025. She was recognized for her innovative work on membranes designed to remove salt and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from drinking water.
PFAS are widely known as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. Mathangi’s research contributes to developing cleaner and more accessible water purification systems, especially important in underserved communities facing contamination crises.
Her membrane technology aims to be cost-effective as well as energy-efficient, aligning with the foundation's goal of promoting practical solutions to global environmental issues. Mathangi is also active in mentoring younger students and volunteers with environmental education groups, further amplifying the impact of her work.
RESF’s Ongoing Commitment to Clean Energy Leadership
RESF is committed to supporting students who are not only advancing clean energy research but also making a difference in their communities. Through awards like these, RESF continues to invest in the next generation of innovators working toward a sustainable and resilient world.
As Tata Serebryany and Mathangi Venkatesh carry their work forward, their contributions reflect the core mission of the foundation: to empower those creating real-world solutions to today’s most urgent environmental challenges. RESF congratulates both scholars and looks forward to the lasting impact of their work in renewable energy and beyond.
Published by Gatsby Press.