THIBODAUX, La. — A Nicholls Chemistry student’s research will be on display at the American Chemical Society’s 2019 Midwest Regional Meeting.
The conference accepted hundreds of abstracts, including three from Nicholls chemistry seniors Taylor Mabile of Thibodaux, Abigail Grabert of Lockport and Nicholas Mayon of Thibodaux. The American Chemical Society then selects a smaller number to highlight as Exceptional Abstracts. Among them is Grabert’s abstract.
Grabert is using a fluorescent probe to study biomolecules like proteins. The photophysics of this molecule are not well understood, particularly in viscous environments.
“It’s almost unbelievable to me that I’ll not only be in the presence of real-life research chemists, whose work applies to current problems of today, but also that I’ll be presenting my work among them,” Grabert said. “It’s so cool to me to be able to go from learning about research work in a classroom setting to experiencing it firsthand and hearing about the work of people who are trying to make a difference in the scientific world.”
Nicholls chemistry requires many of its undergraduates to take part in mentored research projects. This gives students a chance to start learning about higher-level research. Further, conferences give students an opportunity to present their research, which prepares them for graduate school.
“This honor illustrates that our students are successful in a global arena, and they stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best scientists in the world,” said Dr. Chad Young, Nicholls chemistry department head. “It is true that we have excellent students, but, most importantly, we have faculty that are devoted to student success. They spend many hours a week with their research students. Their greatest joy is to see students like Abigail, Nicholas and Taylor succeed as chemists.”
The conference takes place this week in Wichita, Kansas.
