2025 CBC Outstanding Undergraduates

Biochemistry Outstanding Freshman

Laura Serikova

"I am an international student from Shymkent, Kazakhstan, studying Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology. Since arriving at the U of A, I have tried to get the most out of my experience. That is why I joined the Undergraduate Journal Club and the Chemistry Club, both of which have played an important role in my professional and personal development. I was lucky enough to join ALEC (Arizona Lab for Emerging Contaminants) my first semester here. As an undergraduate research assistant, I prepare digestions of samples (soil, plant material, dust) to analyze them for the presence of various chemicals. I do realize that I still have a lot to learn, but that only fuels my motivation to keep going!"

Biochemistry Outstanding Sophomore

Adrian De la Peña

"My name is Adrian and I was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico but came to the University of Arizona, following my sister who graduated years before me. I was not 100% sure biochemistry would be right for me, but after my two years in the CBC department, I could not be surer I have chosen the best discipline for my interests. I was lucky enough to join the Cai research lab, under the mentorship of Dr. Minying Cai, where we focus on the drug discovery pipeline. Not only have I learned how to run traditional biochemical assays, but we are starting to integrate the plethora of computational and AI-based technologies being developed for biochemistry, allowing for vast progress in discovering new biochemical pathways. To continue research for the betterment of human health, I hope to be accepted into the accelerated Master's program here at the U of A and continue on to a PhD program at the best institution I can."

Biochemistry Outstanding Junior

Gavin Arnold

"Hello, my name is Gavin Arnold and I am a junior majoring in biochemistry with a certificate in global health. Being a member of the CBC community at the University of Arizona has provided me with countless opportunities and greatly enriched my undergraduate experience. I am grateful for the ability to volunteer with the Student Members of the American Chemical Society as well as serve as an ambassador and peer mentor for the department. I am interested in pursuing an MD/PhD dual degree after graduation focused on improving the quality of life for aging adults. I have been an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Ying-hui Chou's Brain Imaging & Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Laboratory for the past two years, where I am currently leading a project to determine the synergistic effects of multiple forms of non-invasive brain stimulation for memory and cognition."

Chemistry Outstanding Junior

Luke Fasse

"My name is Luke, and I am a chemistry major in my third year at the U of A. I have been a part of Dr. Thomas Gianetti’s lab in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department for over two years now, researching photoredox catalysis. I mainly work on designing and implementing catalysts in light-initiated reactions. Outside of the lab, I am a peer mentor in the CBC Peer Mentor Program and an ambassador for both the CBC Department and the College of Science. I also work as a science tutor for NCAA athletes with C.A.T.S. Academics. In my free time, I like to spend time outside, whether that be camping, fishing, hiking, biking, or climbing. After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school and obtain a PhD in Chemistry."

Read more on past awardees and requirements to apply for the Outstanding Chemistry & Biochemistry Undergraduate Awards.