Chase Smith ’27 is majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in African Studies. She is especially interested in organic synthesis and its applications in pharmaceutical development. During her summer research, she gained experience optimizing reactions and recognized the value of exploring understudied reaction pathways. Through lab experience, Chase has developed a passion for designing and testing complex molecular structures with therapeutic potential. She plans to pursue a career in medicinal chemistry, where she hopes to contribute to the development of more effective and accessible treatments. With an interdisciplinary perspective shaped by her focus in African Studies, she is also interested in how global health challenges can inform drug design and distribution strategies. Chase plans to expand her research by exploring ring-opening mechanisms driven by solvolysis.
