I study: “My research group and I study chemical interventions in bacterial quorum sensing. It’s a communication mechanism that allows bacteria to regulate group function, often resulting in increased infectivity and the development of antibiotic resistance.”
Why? “Though most of my graduate training was in synthetic organic chemistry, I have always been fascinated by chemistry that can effect a change in living systems. Plus, working on systems as universally important as infectious and probiotic bacteria is super motivating. Hopefully my students think so too.
This fall I’m teaching: “Organic Chemistry 1”
What students can expect from me: “Pop quizzes revealed in surprising ways. Stay tuned.”
I’m excited to be here because: “I feel like the students and faculty are equally as motivated to achieve and do great work. It’s inspiring.”
Getting to know me: “I was a student-athlete in college (volleyball) and was also involved in a lot of student organizations. I worked hard to find a way to manage these time commitments and enjoy chatting with students who are facing challenges in that regard. I also will talk about pop/R&B music at length with anyone if they are willing to listen to my POV. (See what I did there? Ariana…)”
The Department of Chemistry offers programs that introduce students to the study of the properties, composition, and structure of matter; the changes that alter the identity of substances; and the energy changes that take place during such transformations.