Bio..

"Hello! I am a non-traditional student changing careers to become a physician, and I will begin medical school in Fall 2024. My previous education and work experiences are in disaster and risk management. I am excited to join and contribute to Dr. Santra's lab, and to glean a deeper understanding of academic research. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and friends, staying active, volunteering at church, and playing with my cats."

Bio..

Hello! My name is Gangadher Yedke, and I am a graduate student at Missouri State University. I am pursuing a Master of Science in Chemistry, with research focused on organic synthesis. My current research involves designing novel catalysts for organic synthesis. My long-term goal is to pursue a Ph.D. and build a strong research career in this field. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to work under the guidance of Dr. Santra and to be part of his research group. Beyond the laboratory, I enjoy traveling, playing cricket, reading books, and speaking Spanish.

Bio..

Hello! My name is Lane Spillman and I’m from Kansas City, Missouri. I graduated from Missouri state University with a B.S. in chemistry and a minor in biomedical sciences. I am currently working on an M.S. in chemistry with my research focused on polymeric nanostructures. I’m hoping to use my education and experience to aid in the development of novel medications and therapies. In my free time I am usually with my friends or dogs. My hobbies include chess, studying German, and walking at the park.

Bio..

Hello, I am Kyle Ramaker, and I have lived in Springfield, Missouri, for around 20 years. I graduated from Missouri State University (MSU) with a B.S. in comprehensive chemistry (biochemistry emphasis), and I am currently pursuing an M.S. in chemistry. Since high school, I have known I wanted to work in the pharmaceutical industry to design/synthesize pharmaceutical compounds. Being part of Dr. Santra’s lab brings me closer to achieving this goal. After completing the chemistry graduate program at MSU, I aspire to enter a medicinal chemistry PhD program. In my free time, I enjoy travelling with family, spending time with friends, and going on hikes!

Bio..

My name is Mephalyne Magoma Ombasa from Kenya , currently pursuing master's of science in chemistry at Missouri State University. I hold a bachelor's degree in education science from Maseno university, Kenya . My current research is focused on organic synthesis, specifically on synthesising nanoparticles for drug delivery system for cancer therapy. I am  aspiring to extend my research further to a PhD level. I love traveling, cooking , knitting, watching movies and documentaries. I am grateful to have the opportunity of doing my research in Dr santra's lab.

Bio..

Hello. My name is James Speake. I am currently a senior at Missouri State University. I am studying for my bachelor’s in biomedical science: human anatomy and physiology tract, and have a chemistry minor. Additionally, I am a pre-med student with aspirations of becoming a cardiologist. I currently work at Alps as a pharmacy fulfillment technician for the long-term-care/hospice pharmacy. Outside of my academic life, I have two big hobbies. I personally play the oboe and play a little piano in my free time. Additionally, I love the chance to get out and play a little golf at the many golf courses here in Springfield. I am so excited to be working in Dr. Santi’s research lab and am excited for all I will get to learn while participating.

Bio..

Hi! My name is Paris Yates, and I am a transfer Junior at Missouri State University. My major is Biology/Microbiology-Biotechnology, declared as a pre-medical student, with a plan to become a physician. I enjoy being a part of organizations such as Pre-medical Society, Women in STEM, etc. I currently work at Mercy Hospital in the neurotrauma PCU, but in my free time, I like to hike, read, volunteer, and take walks with my dog, Maggie. One fun fact about me is that I will be volunteering at the Humane Society here in Springfield, MO, this semester. In the past, I have focused on neurological research regarding the developing brain, but I am excited to start fixating on nanomedicine in Dr. Santra’s lab! I am thankful for this opportunity!

Bio..

I am a sophomore at Central High School interested in all things STEM-related. In school, I pursue this passion by being involved in extracurriculars including Science Olympiad, HOSA, Technology Student Association, and Science Fair. Outside of school, I enjoy hobbies such as programming, playing chess, and playing tennis. Research is one of my biggest passions, as I believe it is the best way to make an impact on my fields of interest as a high schooler. In the future, I plan on attending an accredited 4-year undergraduate university to later attend medical school and become a physician.

Bio..

Hello! My name is Ugurcan Buyurgan, and I am a junior in the International Baccalaureate Program at Central High School. My goal is to become a medical professional, which is why I am excited to join and contribute to Dr. Santra's laboratory. Additionally, I have been playing ice hockey in Springfield for the past 10 years and have an interest in math, science, and art. I am eager to gain a deeper understanding of his academic research and to use my knowledge to make a positive impact on my community.