Abi H
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at Yale University
Expertise
organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, catalysis
Bio
I am originally from Wisconsin and obtained my BS in Biochemistry from the University of St. Thomas (UST) in St. Paul, MN. Following graduation, I worked for two years as a laboratory manager of an undergraduate research lab at UST. During this time, I taught lab technique and oversaw the research of ~25 undergraduates, as well as completing the synthesis of several small molecule oxazolidinone antibiotics. I am currently a graduate student in the Chemistry Department at Yale University, where I've studied the total synthesis of pleuromutilin antibiotics. Currently, I am exploring physical organic chemistry parameters that govern proton-coupled electron transfer reactions. With a background in teaching and mentoring, as well as a skill set ranging from biochemistry to physical organic chemistry, I’m excited to help you find out what you are excited about in chemistry!Project ideas
1) Writing a scientific review.
In this project, you will write a scientific review-style paper on a topic of your choice. Topics could range anywhere within chemistry, from “the history of antibiotics” to “how do we know that electrons exist?”. This process will teach you how to find, access, and critically analyze existing scientific literature and how to assemble primary literature into a scientific review. You will gain skills in writing and editing, as well as an in-depth knowledge of your chosen research topic.
2) Creating a podcast.
As an avid podcast listener, I’m always looking for a podcast that is both entertaining and informative. In this project, you will create that podcast! Your podcast should convince or inform your audience about your chosen chemistry topic. You will gain skills in reading scientific literature, drafting a script, and editing your podcast.
3) Designing and completing a research project.
Have you ever wanted to be a real-life scientist, but you don’t have your very own lab? In this project, you will design a research project that can be completed at home, gather data, and present that data as either a scientific poster or talk. You will learn about the scientific process, how to construct appropriate figures for your data, and how to communicate your results in a formal presentation.
Teaching experience
I began teaching as an undergraduate at UST, where I worked as an organic and general chemistry TA for three years. I was recognized for my undergraduate teaching with a Chemistry Teaching Assistant Award. I then taught organic chemistry lab technique full-time for two years as a lab manager. Since coming to Yale, I have received the T.F. Cooke Teaching Award for my teaching of organic chemistry lab. I have scientifically mentored two undergraduates in my research lab and have mentored two additional Yale undergraduates as part of the Women In Science At Yale (WISAY) mentorship program.Credentials
Education
Reviews
"Abi is not just an incredible scientist but also an incredible person! I was coming off of a canceled hospital internship due to COVID-19, feeling defeated and lost, but much research led me to Polygence. From the beginning, Abi insisted on making sure that my project was something I would be proud of. As time went on, her support grew stronger, and I could rely on her for more than just project advice. The project was not without its struggles, but Abi never gave up on me (and my initial stubbornness). Abi's guidance was amazing, and I would not trade it for anything. I hope to continue reaching out to her! I can say that her guidance on improving my presentation skills and scientific knowledge was instrumental in my 1st Place school fair win. Because of her, I feel as though I have gained crucial scientific and basic skills that I will use throughout my life."
