Behind the Test Tube: Q&A

Loren Cardani—Undergraduate Student, Nilsson Lab

Where is home/where did you grow up?

I grew up outside of Worcester, Massachusetts.

Why did you choose chemistry as a career?

I love learning about the chemistry behind biological processes. Figuring out how to manipulate molecules to cause biological changes is so fascinating!

Proudest accomplishment while at the University of Rochester?

Either synthesizing a 27-mer peptide by hand in the lab (a 67-step synthesis!) or helping students to develop an understanding of organic chemistry through tutoring.

What do you like to do when not in the department?

I love hiking, reading, solving word puzzles, and singing with the Treble Chorus at Eastman.

A Rochester must?

Keeping the seasonal depression at bay with a visit to Lamberton Conservatory in Highland Park.

Feast/meal of the times? Details, please!

Any sweet or savory pastries, straight from the oven!

An inspiring book/movie /show? We are really curious as to why!

I've read so many profound, thought-provoking books, but for some reason "The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet" by Becky Chambers is the one that sticks with me. I love how wholesome it is, and with its diverse cast of characters and "found family" themes, it brings me a lot of joy.

Ask me about…

Books, houseplants, and great places to hike!

_{The goal of this initiative is to highlight the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives in the Department of Chemistry and help our community develop stronger connections and synergies. You can think of these spotlights as the beginning of a conversation that we very much hope you will continue in the corridors of Hutch and beyond.}

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