Q: What object did you choose to represent your work in the shoot and why?

A: I chose a molecular model that represents an archetype in organic chemistry—that is, a molecule with "handedness." Many, but not all, organic molecules actually come both right-handed and left-handed, and this handedness is key to the biochemistry of living organisms.  

Q: What are you most looking forward to about your new space?

A: I am most looking forward to the many informal meeting spaces the building will house. In Merrill, there are essentially none, and students who are not in a faculty member’s office or in a lab must sit out in a hallway. The new building’s student offices will enable them to spread out their books, laptops and other things in a safe environment separate from—but adjacent to!—ongoing experiments. In addition, the offices and research labs of faculty from different departments will be intermingled on the various floors, which will provide the opportunity for even greater interdisciplinary interaction.

Q: How will the building impact your work?

The new building will be an absolutely beautiful space that will enhance everything we do, from formal teaching to office hours to experimental work to having a cup of coffee!