Beyond the Classroom
HIGH-IMPACT LEAR Undergraduate research, scholarship, and creative activities
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early 50 percent of UC Davis undergraduates participate in facultymentored independent research and creative projects. Many cap their projects with presentations at the campuswide Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities Conference. More than 200 students from the College of Letters and Science showcased their projects. Many were supported by philanthropy. “Research opportunities for students help prepare them for success in whatever they decide to do in the future,” said Annaliese Franz, faculty director of the Undergraduate Research Center and associate professor of chemistry.
“Research was something I was always interested in when I came to UC Davis. I never imagined how far it would take me.” – Alexandra Greb
“You can always find ways to make a living and do what you love.”
Research on antidepressants and psychedelics Alexandra Greb (B.S., pharmaceutical chemistry, ’18) not only showcased her work, but also accomplished a rare feat for an undergraduate: she graduated in June with two publications to her name. As a sophomore, Greb began work in the lab of David Olson, assistant professor of chemistry and of biochemistry and molecular medicine. She investigated the timing and mechanisms of a wide range of fast-acting antidepressants, including well-known psychedelic compounds such as ketamine, LSD and MDMA. Greb co-authored a report on the results that was published in June in the journal Cell Reports. Greb also wrote a paper with Birgit Puschner, a professor in the School of Veterinary Medicine, on cannabinoid treats for pets.
– Kristin Cox
Alexandra Greb Kristin Cox
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