Two recipients of the Clare Boothe Luce Scholarship have completed their summer research. Chestnut Hill College sophomores Meghan Guagenti and Megan Malvoisin, under the supervision of Karen Wendling, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, have been conducting original research and gaining valuable lab experience. Guagenti is currently studying St. John’s Wort supplements to quantify hyperforin, one of the active ingredients.
“The FDA doesn’t regulate herbal substances,” says Guagenti. “So they can sell the substance and it may not contain ingredients, or may not contain an active dose.”
Malvoisin is researching traces of marijuana found on $1 and $20 bills. By tracking the chemical cannabinol, one of the non-psychoactive chemicals in marijuana, she can safely determine if currency has been exposed to marijuana through direct or indirect means.
“The fellowship is a great way for first-year students to gain experience that can put them ahead for future internships and job opportunities,” says Wendling. "It's all new to them, so everything is a learning experience. They're just at the start of their careers, so it is a very formative and exciting time."
The Clare Boothe Luce Program is the single most significant source of private scholarship support for women in science, mathematics and engineering. Clare Boothe Luce Research Scholars spend the summer working with professors at SEPCHE institutions where they conduct research in chemistry, mathematics and computer science.
— Cristina Diaz ’15