Dionne M. Hernández-Lugo is a research electrical engineer in the Photovoltaic and Electrochemical Systems Branch at The NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio.

The Glenn Center is home to approximately 3,000 scientists, engineers, and technical people, who design and develop technology to advance NASA's aeronautics and space exploration missions.

The Glenn Center focuses on research and testing of game-changing technology in propulsion, aeronautics, materials and structures, communications, power and energy storage, and biomedical sciences.

Hernández-Lugo is a lead test engineer for Advanced Space Power Systems and the Principal Investigator in developing nano-carbon electrodes for Li-metal batteries.

Her work helps NASA Glenn shape the world of tomorrow by developing technologies that will further the exploration of the universe and revolutionize air travel.

Hernández-Lugo's academic and professional journey to NASA Glenn began with a bachelor's degree in industrial chemistry and a Ph.D. in physical chemistry.

In 2008, she won the Bridge to Doctorate Fellowship awarded by the National Science Foundation (NSF).

The NSF Bridge to the Doctorate Graduate Fellowship Program was created to help support science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) students in their doctoral studies, with a goal of increasing the number of ethnically underrepresented students completing STEM doctoral degrees.

The fellowship offers recipients a $30,000 fellowship during their first two years, and the department pays for the cost of the next three years (contingent upon availability of funding).

Other benefits include advising and advocacy, professional development, conference travel, a supportive community, and access to a diverse student center.

Dr. Hernandez-Lugo has authored multiple research papers published in international peer-reviewed journals and presented at 35 major national and international scientific conferences.

In 2010, she was awarded the NASA Harriet Jenkins Fellowship by NASA Headquarters, which promotes the participation of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities in mathematics, science, engineering, and technology disciplines.

In 2012, NASA recognized Hernández-Lugo's commitment to STEM education and leadership with the NASA Ambassador award, and in 2014, she received the Student Leadership Award from the Women in Color in STEM Magazine.

As a result of her achievements, she has become a member of the National Association of Professional Women, the Golden Key International Honor Society, and the International Women's Leadership Association.

She has also served as a science fair judge for elementary and middle school students. At NASA, she has volunteered for STEM symposiums.

Before joining NASA, Dr. Hernández-Lugo worked as a research chemist for Pfizer and Bristol Myers Squibb, where she was part of their research and development team.