Jarrina Carlos

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

1.     Who are you doing research with this summer and what kind of research project are you doing?

I’m doing research under Dr. Adejare from the Pharmaceutical Sciences department. Originally, the goal of my research project was to test the toxicity of several compounds that were previously created in the lab. However, as a group, we saw more promising results in furthering our research by developing novel compounds that we hope will serve as a suitable N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist.

 2.     What do you find fascinating in the research you’re doing?

Many different aspects of this research are fascinating to me. I think the thing that I find the most fascinating is the fact that my job in the lab isn’t solely focused on one particular field. Rather, it incorporates both chemistry and biology techniques. Usually when you enter a lab, the studies done focus on one or the other. 

 3.     What skills are you learning through the USURF experience?

Through my USURF experience, I was able to practice basic lab techniques I learned in university such as titrating a buffer, performing an acid base work up, and recording melting points of novel compounds. In addition, I was also able to learn how to operate a GC-MS (gas chromatography – mass spectrometry) and an NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance).  

 4.     What are the challenges you’re encountering in your research?

One of the biggest challenges I had to face was dealing with how quickly things are able to change in the lab. The result of one experiment can dramatically affect the progression of a study. 

5.     How is your USURF experience impacting the way you view your field?

My USURF experience has shown me how flexible and adaptable a person has to be while working in a lab. It has also given me insight in what is necessary in order to publish an official scientific article. 

 6.     Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I’m an Air Force brat, meaning I grew up in a military household. I was able to visit different places such as Japan and Germany. Because of this, I hope to travel more in the future!