Founder and Key Members
Abdoulaye Djire, PhD
Dr. Djire is the Founder and President of the Djire Foundation. At Texas A&M University, he serves as Principal Investigator of the Discovery Journey to Innovative Renewable Energy (DJIRE) Laboratory and Summer Research Program. Dr. Djire is also a member of the Texas PowerHouse Energy Policy Advisory Council, where he helps inform energy policy through research, positively impacting the lives of Texans. Originally from Mali, Dr. Djire is deeply passionate about education and research. He is an expert in the synthesis and characterization of MXenes and is regarded as one of the pioneers in the development of nitride MXenes (MNenes).
Dr. Djire has published over 50 research articles in esteemed scientific journals and has delivered numerous invited talks at prestigious institutions and international conferences. His work has been recognized by numerous awards, including the DOD ARO Early Career Award, DOE ARPA-E SPARKS Award, NSF CAREER Award, Sloan Research Fellowship, Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award, C&N Talented 12, DuPont GOLD Award, College of Engineering Dean Excellence Award, Outstanding Junior Faculty Award, and the U.S.-Africa Frontiers Fellowship.
Prior to joining Texas A&M, Dr. Djire held positions as a Staff Scientist and Postdoctoral Researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in the Chemistry and Nanoscience Center. He earned his Ph.D. and Master’s degrees in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan and his B.S. from Prairie View A&M University.
Eugenie Marie Pranada
Eugenie Marie Pranada, serves as Director of Communications for the Djire Foundation, where she leads efforts to build the foundation’s public presence and advance its mission of supporting the next generation of researchers. In this role, Eugenie oversees the foundation’s website, digital outreach, and communication initiatives, helping connect students with mentorship, research opportunities, and career guidance. Eugenie earned a BS in Chemical Engineering and is completing her PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, with research focused on electrochemical water splitting applications. Coming from an undergraduate institution in the Philippines with limited research exposure, Eugenie understands firsthand how challenging and intimidating the path to research and graduate school can be. This personal journey inspires her commitment to making research more accessible, welcoming, and supportive for aspiring scholars. With a strong background in mentorship and leadership, including serving as a teaching assistant to more than 500 students and training undergraduate and graduate researchers, Eugenie brings optimism, empathy, and a genuine passion for helping students succeed. She is proud to support the foundation’s mission of empowering students with the guidance, resources, and confidence to pursue their academic and professional dreams.
David Kumar Yesudoss
David’s involvement with The Djire Foundation is shaped by his own journey through higher education across India, South Korea, and the United States. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical and Electrochemical Engineering at CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute in India in 2019. He later earned his Master’s degree in Energy Science and Engineering from DGIST, South Korea, where he developed a strong interest in electrochemical systems, energy conversion, and research-driven problem solving. David is currently pursuing his PhD in Chemical Engineering at Texas A&M University, with research focused on two-dimensional materials, electrochemical energy conversion, and sustainable ammonia synthesis. His academic journey across India, South Korea, and the United States has given him firsthand experience with the challenges students face when navigating higher education, research opportunities, and graduate school applications. Through The Djire Foundation, David is passionate about helping undergraduate students, especially those in STEM, better understand graduate life, research pathways, and academic career opportunities. He hopes to use his experience to mentor students, provide practical guidance, and encourage aspiring scholars to pursue advanced education with confidence and purpose.
Fatoumata Kany Dibo
Fatoumata Kany Dibo is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Systems Management at Texas A&M University and plans to continue her education with a Master’s degree in a related field. Originally from Mali, she is interested in agriculture, education, and international development. Fatoumata’s academic journey in the United States has given her a unique perspective on the challenges international students face when navigating higher education systems. Coming from an international background, she understands the importance of access to information, guidance, and opportunities for students pursuing studies abroad. Throughout her studies, Fatoumata has developed a strong foundation in agricultural systems, including coursework in machinery management, energy systems, and agricultural technologies. She has also been involved in academic projects focused on topics such as agricultural efficiency, equipment performance, and sustainability, which have strengthened her analytical and problem-solving skills. Through her involvement and interests, Fatoumata is motivated to be part of initiatives that create opportunities for students to access higher education and succeed in their academic paths. She is particularly interested in contributing to programs that connect students with resources, support, and opportunities for growth.”
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