Last summer, two University of Guam biology majors conducted research at the University of Rochester in New York alongside mentor and UOG chemistry professor Dr. Naushadalli Suleman.

To cover the cost of the 10-week fellowships, the University partnered with the the Rotary Club of Guam and South Pacific Petroleum Corporation to raise over $13,000.

“We’re so thankful to Dr. Suleman, UOG, and all our sponsors for making it possible for us to be a part of this research project,” Capati said.

Capati, Perez, and Suleman worked with a team of University of Rochester graduate students led by distinguished organic photochemist Dr. Joseph Dinnocenzo. Their research investigated how and why certain bonds between carbon and tin atoms break during certain chemical reactions.

"It is expected that the insights gained from these studies will be helpful in designing and synthesizing new materials," Suleman said.

An “Eye Opening Experience”

Capati and Perez also had received training and worked on sophisticated lab equipment worth millions. “It was an ‘eye-opening’ experience,” said Perez.

Participating in research fellowships allows students to gain valuable professional experience said Suleman.

"In many instances, undergraduate research fellowships at major U.S. universities can provide extraordinary opportunities for advanced training and professional development of our chemistry students," he said. "Ana and Aubri refined their skills for purifying chemical compounds and learned specialized techniques for the handling of hazardous and air-sensitive reagents while performing sophisticated multi-step chemical reactions."

While taking part in the research fellowship was exciting, both students said they were glad they chose to attend UOG because of the quality of education they’ve received. 

“The biology and chemistry programs here at UOG are great,” Capati said, “Dr. Suleman doesn't accept mediocre effort. And he’s a big factor as to why UOG students in biology and chemistry graduate and enter biomedical disciplines.”