The University of New Mexico (UNM) recently celebrated the achievements of two students from its Nanomedicine Lab, Caleb Dang and Chuzube Edeh. Both were recognized at the 2023 AIChE Annual Meeting with presentation awards.
Dang, a junior majoring in chemical and biological engineering, secured second place in the poster presentation in the food, pharmaceutics, and biotechnology division. His project was titled "Engineered Nanoparticles As Carriers for Dual Therapy for Ovarian Cancer." In addition to Dang's achievement, Edeh, a junior studying biochemistry, earned second place in the poster presentation at the materials engineering and sciences division. His work was focused on "Nanoparticle Topography Dictates Biological Behaviors," according to a press release by UNM.
Dang expressed his gratitude for the recognition and credited his lab team for their contributions. He said, "It was reassuring to not only have all the work I did get recognized but also the contributions from fellow researchers, my PI, and lab members." He further highlighted how his time at the Nanomedicine Lab has enhanced his passion for research. "In addition to teaching me basic research skills, the Nanomedicine Lab has deepened my passion to continue to do research. I have learned how a research lab functions and what it takes to research," added Dang.
Edeh also reflected on his experience at the Nanomedicine Lab. "My time in the Nanomedicine Lab has been instrumental in shaping my approach to learning and work ethic. Despite my aspirations to become a medical doctor, the lab has taught me invaluable skills such as learning under pressure and understanding the importance of hard work," he said. Edeh further emphasized that witnessing dreams materialize through dedication and effort has been a transformative lesson from his experiences in the lab.
The American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) is a leading global association for chemical engineering professionals, boasting a membership of over 60,000 individuals across 110 countries. The Institute for Learning and Innovation, an initiative by AIChE, provides students and professionals with opportunities to gain knowledge and stimulate innovation through educational engagements, practical applications, and initiatives, according to the AIChE website.