Alumni

The School of Molecular Sciences welcomes the proud alumni of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at ASU, and invites them to join us as we take the next step in the evolution of the molecular sciences.

The School acknowledges the students and faculty who worked so hard to build the reputation of chemistry and biochemistry at ASU. The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry established a national reputation for excellence in interdisciplinary research that the School will build on to develop a new scientific discipline, and further enhance ASU's reputation for Innovation.

Jesse Jones
PhD in Chemistry, 1963

Dr. Jesse Jones became the first person to receive a PhD in chemistry from Arizona State University in 1963. Following his own successful academic career, Dr. Jones became a dedicated professor. Dr. Jones was awarded the Milton K. Curry education award.

Read his story: ASU’s first chemistry PhD receives Milton K. Curry education award

Karie Behm
PhD in Chemistry, 2020

Karie Behm graduated with a doctoral degree in chemistry from ASU 2020. Behm has devoted her energies to unlocking some of the secrets of Lyme disease.

Read her story: ASU researchers solve a Lyme disease mystery

Josh Vermaas
BS in Biochemistry, 2010

Josh Vermaas graduated with degrees in biochemistry, physics and computational math from ASU 2010.  He is currently an assistant professor at Michigan State University.

Read his story:Talented alum from ASU's School of Molecular Sciences returns for lecture

Chris Gisriel
PhD, 2017

Chris Gisriel, currently a postdoctoral associate in the Department of Chemistry at Yale University, was recently awarded a Pathway to Independence Award by the National Institutes of Health.

Read his story: SMS alum receives prestigious NIH early-career award

Ana Julia Narvaez
PhD in Biochemistry, 2003

Ana Julia Narvaez is the director of biological science and translational biology at Moderna.

Read her story: ASU alumna designing vaccines at Moderna

Zovia Wosinska
PhD in Biochemistry, 2009

Zovia Wosinska was recently featured on Wharton School of the UPenn's alumni highlight.

Read her story: Zofia Wosinska seeks to inspire more women in science to get MBAs.z

Chad McCluskey
BS in Chemistry, 2013

Mr. Chad McCluskey is currently an AP & Honors Chemistry Alhambra Science Instructional Leader.

Episode 9: Science Teacher with Dr. Ara Austin

Evan Darzi
BS in Medicinal Chemistry, 2008
MS in Medicinal Chemistry, 2011

Evan currently works as a chemist at Icagen, which is a pharmaceutical biotech company focused in early drug discovery.

Episode 12: Drug Development and Research with Dr. Ara Austin

Sarah Staton 
PhD in Chemistry, 2011

Sarah currently works as the Senior Coordinator for the Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program.

Episode 11: Science Policy & Government with Dr. Ara Austin

Martha Medina
PhD in Chemistry, 2004

Martha is currently a Vice President of International Sales at 21st Century Healthcare.

Episode 2: International Sales with Dr. Ara Austin