I have always been fascinated by the idea of finding creative answers to problems with hands-on experimentation. Once I got involved in research in chemistry I was completely hooked to the possibility of putting various “building blocks” together and making functional materials using synthetic organic chemistry. This is my third year at the Barnes Integrated Materials Lab, and being in charge of my own project has truly helped me learn what it means to problem-solve and troubleshoot in “real-time chemistry,” which is very different from classroom learning. I am planning to pursue a PhD program in Chemistry, and I am extremely grateful to WashU., the Barnes Lab, and all my professors for providing me the guidance and endless opportunities learn, grow and excel at every step.

― Anusree Natraj Class of 2019, J. Barnes Lab