Treva T. Brown, PhD
Treva T. Brown, PhD, is a dedicated physical scientist and materials chemist whose work centers on advanced microscopy and nanomaterials research. With a doctorate in inorganic chemistry, she has built a strong foundation in analytical techniques such as electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, using these tools to investigate corrosion mechanisms, surface behavior, and materials performance. Her passion for microscopy began during her undergraduate years when early research experiences — including visualizing DNA through high-powered instrumentation — sparked a lifelong fascination with nanoscale science and led to a published research contribution that helped secure a fellowship for her doctoral studies. Her career path has also included teaching general chemistry laboratories and gaining early industry experience in polymer and rubber chemistry. Known for her technical expertise and curiosity-driven approach, she thrives in environments where each day brings new research challenges, from reviewing emerging literature to conducting detailed laboratory investigations that support scientific advancement and national priorities. Beyond the laboratory, Treva is deeply committed to mentorship, outreach, and expanding access to STEM opportunities for future generations. She actively mentors student interns, participates in community science engagement initiatives, and advocates for greater representation and inclusion within the scientific workforce. Recognized for her leadership and service through professional awards and honors, Treva continues to inspire aspiring scientists through speaking, volunteerism, and her mission to make science visible, accessible, and empowering for all who seek to explore it.
• PhD in Inorganic Chemistry
• University of New Orleans- Ph.D.
• Louisiana State University- B.S.
• 2020 Woman in S.T.E.M.
• 2017 Winifred Burks-Houck Graduate Leadership Award
• Louisiana Board of Regents Fellowship
• Athleta “Power of She” Award for Positive Impact on Community
• National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers
• Association for Laboratory Automation
• I3- Integration of Education and Mentoring
• Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity
• Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society
• Alpha Chi Sigma
• Omicron Delta Kappa
• UNO Graduate Student Association
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
• University of New Orleans Graduate Student Association of Chemistry
• STEM Outreach and Mentoring
• Regional STEM Competition Mentorship
• Summer Internship Mentoring in Chemistry and Biology
• Louisiana Children's Museum
• American Chemical Society
What do you attribute your success to?
My parents, support system, and mentors. I always credit my physics high school teacher for telling me about STEM, and I've had various mentors along the way that kept me interested and inspired. My mentors saw something in me that I personally didn't see in myself at the time. I had amazing mentors in undergrad, and I use that mentoring I received to pour back into others since that's what got me to where I am today.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would definitely say the sky is truly the limit. Definitely find mentors - for me, my mentors saw something in me that I personally didn't see in myself at the time. Find somebody that can help you navigate all of the twists and turns of what comes with the journey. Take opportunities, take the leaps into the unknown. I always say I would tell my younger self, especially with study abroad opportunities, I wish that I would have taken those more, because now I love to travel and it's a whole world out there that opens your eyes to so much more. Those experiences can aid in not only your personal life and how you look at life, but also in your career, because you can bring those things that you learn into your career and those networking opportunities as well. I always stress about being a people's person, because knowing people and expanding your network is also great. Networking opportunities are truly great to open those doors that you never thought would open.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I would say location is one of my biggest challenges, because I'm in between Louisiana and Mississippi. This is my opinion only, but I feel that we don't have the latest and greatest when it comes to technology or the interests when it comes to any STEM fields. We do have our chemical plants, however, when it comes to advanced knowledge in various STEM fields, we tend to lack that, and we don't tend to put emphasis on these fields in secondary education. That's one of the biggest challenges, awareness and making ourselves in the STEM careers in the South more visible and accessible to others.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work life are mentorship, inclusivity, outreach, community, and meaningful networking that helps others grow and succeed. The most important value to me in my personal life is family and time with family.