Academic Credentials
  • Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering, University of Washington, 2017
  • M.S., Materials Science and Engineering, University of Washington, 2013
  • B.S., Chemistry, Seattle Pacific University, 2011
Academic Appointments
  • Adjunct Faculty, Chemistry, Seattle Pacific University, 2017-2018
Professional Honors
  • NASA Space Technology Research Fellow, 2012-2016
  • NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (declined), 2012
  • Seattle Pacific University Wes Lingren Award Winner (Top Honors Student), 2011
Professional Affiliations
  • 2023 – present, Association for Women in Science

Dr. Lenz is a materials scientist with extensive knowledge and experience in materials chemistry, especially in understanding the structure-property relationships to optimize material performance and assess failure. She is skilled in designing materials to meet desired product performance metrics and has broad expertise in characterizing fundamental material properties that influence a product's behavior in various environments. Dr. Lenz applies her expertise in material synthesis, characterization, and analytical method development to support clients across diverse material families, such as polymers, ceramics, and semiconductors.

Dr. Lenz has comprehensive experience in materials characterization, covering both bulk and surface properties. Her expertise includes Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, x-ray fluorescence (XRF), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (SS-NMR), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), x-ray diffraction (XRD), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and solar cell characterization under AM0 and AM1.5 conditions. She has applied these skills in a variety of applications, including energy, water, environmental remediation (including contaminants of concern such as PFAS), and construction materials.

Before joining Exponent, Dr. Lenz worked as a Staff Research Engineer at Membrion, a deep-tech startup firm developing a ceramic ion-exchange membrane for water treatment through electro-ceramic desalination. There, she helped develop the core membrane technology from initial concept to a consumer-ready product. She also managed a $1.3 million DOE SBIR project in partnership with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to develop an in-line membrane quality control inspection system. Prior to her role at Membrion, Dr. Lenz gained experience at NASA Glenn's Photovoltaics and Power Systems Branch and NASA Ames's Science Directorate.