Sophia Alexandra Kuhn (she/her)
education & experience
Certificate in Graphic Design & Visual Communication | Emory University, Emory Continuing Education (July 2025)
B.S. in Chemistry (Chemical Biology concentration) | Duke University, Trinity College of Arts and Sciences, Durham, NC (May 2024)
Undergraduate Research Assistant | Franz Lab, Duke University, Department of Chemistry, Durham, NC (2022-2024)
previous clients
Duke University, Department of Chemistry
Princeton University, Department of East Asian Studies
publications
Duda, A. M.; Ma, H. R.; Villalobos, C. A.; Kuhn, S. A.; Angle, S. S.; He, K.; Jackson, A. C.; Suh, C. M.; Puccio, E. A.; Anderson, D. J.; Fowler, V. G.; You, L.; Franz, K. J. An Engineered Prodrug Selectively Suppresses β-Lactam-Resistant Bacteria in a Mixed Microbial Setting. ACS Infect. Dis. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1021/acsinfecdis.5c00179.
Denning-Jannace, C. A.; James, K. J.; Monteagudo, C. R.; Sturrock, G. R.; Robison, A. T. R.; Vaccaro, F. A.; Kuhn, S. A.; Fitzgerald, M. C.; Franz, K. J. Leveraging Vulnerabilities in Copper Trafficking for Synergistic Antifungal Activity. Accepted.
I am an emerging scientific illustrator with a passion for translating scientific knowledge and research into engaging and informative graphics to empower science education through visual storytelling. I earned a B.S. in Chemistry with a concentration in Chemical Biology at Duke University. During my undergraduate career at Duke University, I worked for two years as an undergraduate research assistant in the Franz Lab, where I designed and investigated lead drug candidates as viable antibacterial agents to circumvent the limitations of current antibiotics and overcome antibiotic resistance. Over the course of my college experience, I developed a strong interest in science communication and scientific illustration as a researcher and an artist.
For as long as I can remember, I have loved art and drawing. I decided to study chemistry in college because I fell in love with the artistic nature of the field and enjoyed exploring the different ways we visualize science on cellular and molecular levels. Since high school, I have been passionate about exploring how effective communication, through visual aids, physical models, and engaging speech and writing, can build bridges between scientific and non-scientific communities. As a chemistry student, I thought I would pursue a Ph.D., but following my graduation from Duke in May 2024, I realized that my future lies in combining my passion for science with my love for art. Over the past two years, I have been honing my skills as an illustrator, completing an array of projects, from publication and manuscript figures that illustrate complex research to a logo for a study abroad program.
My research experience and background in chemistry give me a unique perspective as a scientific illustrator. I bring a scientist's eye and intuition to my work, understanding how to effectively and accurately communicate complex topics with intention and clarity. And with my strong sense for design, my work transforms technical concepts and novel research into engaging and educational visuals grounded in real scientific understanding. I enjoy collaborating closely with researchers and educators to create engaging visuals that bring science to life. I find great fulfillment in utilizing my creative thinking, scientific knowledge, and collaborative skills to navigate science communication and create scientific illustrations effectively.
I am currently based in Rockville, MD, but I am excited to work with clients worldwide. I love discussing all things science and art, so please do not hesitate to email me at kuhn.sciart@gmail.com to start a conversation!