Chemistry and Biochemistry Stories & News

Chemistry students in a cave

Taking field science underground

There’s a common misconception that science is a solitary act, one that only happens sitting inside of a lab. But Josh Sebree, associate professor of astrochemistry and astrobiology at UNI, is on a mission to show his students that that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Kate Mostek holding a firework in a store

Fireworks obsession sparks chemistry passion for UNI student

When the average person looks at a fireworks display, they probably aren’t thinking of the chemistry concepts behind the fiery spectacle. But that’s exactly what UNI senior chemistry major Kate Mostek does. Since her parents run a fireworks business, she has extensive knowledge of what it takes to put on an impressive show.

“Even the colors of fireworks are really chemistry dependent,” she explained. “Each color is made out of a different metal salt, and then you can brighten and dull the colors with different combinations.”

Nicole North

UNI grad Nicole North found path in the stars at NASA

For one University of Northern Iowa alum, her latest career accomplishment includes working with NASA.
Patrick Fier, Merck scientist and UNI alum, to speak on developing new medicines

Patrick Fier, Merck scientist and UNI alum, to speak on developing new medicines

The University of Northern Iowa Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry will welcome Patrick Fier to speak as part of this year’s Leland Wilson Lecture Series. Fier will present “The Importance of Organic Chemistry in Developing New Medicines” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, in the Lantz Auditorium in McCollum Science Hall. The event is free and open to the public.
UNI Alum Dr. Kimryn Rathmell recognized for incredible contributions in kidney cancer research

UNI Alum Dr. Kimryn Rathmell recognized for incredible contributions in kidney cancer research

University of Northern Iowa alum Dr. Kimryn Rathmell (‘91) was elected this year to membership in the National Academy of Medicine (NAM), a prestigious, non-governmental organization that advises the nation and the world on important aspects of medical science, health care and public health.
WATCH: UNI’s biochemistry major turns one student’s passion into a career in STEM

WATCH: UNI’s biochemistry major turns one student’s passion into a career in STEM

A biochemistry degree from the University of Northern Iowa will set you on the path to success. If you’re on track to becoming a physician, you’ll be in great company since our biochemistry graduates have a 100% medical school acceptance rate. Hear from student Emma Pelligrino about her experiences in the program.
UNI student collecting samples at Wind Cave National Park

UNI associate professor to mark National Park Week with program on Wind Cave National Park research project

UNI student collecting samples at Wind Cave National Park

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, SD – The University of Northern Iowa’s Josh Sebree, an Associate Professor with the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry will be hosting a program Tuesday, April 19, at 3 p.m. CDT on the Wind Cave National Park’s Facebook page in celebration of National Park Week.

women run stem photo

Two UNI alums featured in national Women in STEM exhibit

In honor of Women’s History Month, a new exhibit to celebrate Women in STEM is on display at the National Mall in Washington DC.  Out of 120 women featured in the exhibit, two of the women are graduates of UNI – both hailing from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry: Dr. Jennifer Stimpson (Chemistry M.A., 1996) and Dr. Raychelle Burks (Chemistry B.S., 2001).
UNI alum Cassandra Hayne overcame cancer to become a biochemist.

After overcoming rare cancer, UNI alum wins prestigious fellowship

Cassandra Hayne (‘11) overcame a rare jaw cancer and years of reconstructive surgeries to achieve her goal of becoming a biochemist.
A UNI alum

UNI alum helping produce COVID-stopping drug

Named one of America’s top young chemists, UNI Alum Patrick Fier leverages his research expertise to lead Merck’s efforts to produce a COVID-stopping drug.