Natural Sciences: Aiden Ward '25
Major(s) and minor(s)
B.S. Biochemistry
Pronouns
They/Them
Hometown
Cleveland, OH
Areas of interest/focus in research
- Biochemistry
- Organic Synthesis
- Biological and Chemical Interfacing
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Janus Nucleobases
Labs / departments / offsite programs where research was conducted
The Partridge Group, Department of Chemistry
About me...
I grew up in the suburbs of Ohio and eventually moved to Cleveland during high school. I graduated, enrolled in the University of Rochester and came in with the hope I'd do some great science. I'm happy to say I've definitely done that already. At the end of my first year I was introduced to Benjamin Partridge, who became my PI and will continue to be until I graduate. I'm currently working on the synthesis of novel Janus nucleobases for use in PNAs to perform triplex invasion of RNA for gene product targeting and knock downs.
How has your experience as a researcher influenced your career objectives?
I had thought for a while I wanted to be a researcher but coming out of high school I still wasn't entirely sure. By getting into research at the university I now know for sure this is what I want to do with my life. The circumstances by which I will continue are up in the air (industry vs academia), but I know I will be researching until I no longer can!
Campus organizations, programs, activities, clubs, awards/distinctions
Discover Grant Recipient, Summer of 2023
American Chemical Society Division of Organic Chemistry Summer Undergraduate Research Funding Program, Summer of 2024
Fun Fact: when I'm not doing research you can usually find me...
Studying around campus, watching YouTube video essays on random stuff, or playing video games.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Discover Grant application writing
- Interview skills
- Lab tours
- Outreach/Networking
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
By far one of the most important things to know, especially if you're doing research in the sciences, is that "failure" is inevitable! Don't let it discourage you! I've had my fair share of terrible weeks that were completely fruitless endeavors resulting in nothing but pure disappointment. Imposter syndrome is a real thing, and it can creep in at the worst times, but you have to remember that science isn't built off of success after success. Countless failures are necessary to bring about great change, so when something goes awry, you are still contributing to science! Although I dislike him personally, Thomas Edison said it best: "I have not failed, I have just found 10,000 ways that will not work."
Email me at: award16@u.rochester.edu