By Scout Nelson
A doctoral student at North Dakota State University recently received a major leadership award in science. Marcel Roy Domalanta, who studies coatings and polymeric materials, earned the CAS Future Leaders award from the American Chemical Society. This program supports early-career scientists by helping them build leadership skills and connect with experts worldwide.
The program supports learning through training, scientific discussions, and networking opportunities. For Domalanta, the award is not only recognition but also a responsibility to share knowledge and support others.
“Receiving the ACS CAS Future Leaders award feels both humbling and grounding,” Domalanta said. “It is not just recognition; it is a transfer of trust. To me, the award is not defined by what happens during the program, but by what happens after it. The real measure is whether the ideas, conversations and perspectives gained can move beyond the cohort and reach others. Knowledge, when kept, is static. When shared, it multiplies. I see this award as a responsibility to carry something forward: to pass on not only what I learn, but what it can become in someone else’s journey.”
During the program, he will receive leadership training, attend scientific meetings, and connect with global researchers. His academic journey has helped shape his research skills and thinking. He has learned to ask clear questions and build answers using data.
“That intersection changed how I see research. It is no longer just about making something work, but about understanding whether it should exist, who it serves and how it can improve lives responsibly,” he said. “That balance between technical depth and human context is what I carry both inside and outside the classroom.”
Domalanta has worked on many research projects, including coatings, corrosion science, and battery modeling. These experiences have helped him become more adaptable and confident.
“Moving between them taught me adaptability and reinforced a simple idea: you never really start from zero; you start from what you already know and build forward,” he said. “The research environment here values that process. It allows room for failure, not as a setback, but as part of the method. That kind of environment is rare, and it shapes not just better researchers, but more resilient ones.”
He also encourages students to stay consistent and support others.
“Motivation comes and goes, but progress depends on showing up anyway. You don’t have to be the best to do your best — you just have to continue. And while you pursue excellence, do not forget kindness. Research is demanding, and the people around you are carrying their own challenges. When you reach a position where you can help, do it. Be the mentor you once needed. Be the person you once wished was there. Impact is not only measured by what you discover, but by who you support along the way.”
He also highlights the importance of teamwork in science.
“As scientists, we often focus on advancing knowledge, pushing boundaries and solving problems. But none of that exists without people. There is no science without scientists,” Domalanta said. “So, while we work to move the field forward, we also have a responsibility to look after one another, our peers, our students and those who will come after us. Progress is not only about what we build, but about who we bring with us.”
Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Education