David Aupperle is making the transition between his freshman and sophomore year as a chemistry major - and he isn't taking the easy road. He is spending most of his summer in Professor Muna's laboratory learning and applying electrochemistry. David's project is to develop a stable palladium modified electrode that offers long term stability and efficiency in catalyzing the electro-oxidation of steroid hormones. The ultimate goal is to employ this electrode for electrochemical detection of steroid hormones in water.
David is the first student to be awarded the new Carolyn & Lawrence Garber Summer Research Scholarship which provides support for full-time research for one lucky student in the department. David plans to attend graduate school to receive a Ph.D. in chemistry. With interests in education, he is uncertain whether to pursue a career in industry or academics - but he has plenty of time to decide.
