PhD Students
Ani Shalamberidze
Research: My research is focused on the design and synthesis of fluorescent nucleoside analogues, characterization, photophysical studies and incorporation of these molecules into RNA.
Background: From Tbilisi, Georgia. BS in Chemistry from SDSU Georgia, 2019.
Interests: I love travelling and watching crime documentaries.
Dana Rosansky
Research: I study the relationship between spectroscopic features and structural dynamics in fluorescent nucleosides. This includes synthetic optimization and several spectroscopic methods including time-resolve fluorescence and fluorescence anisotropy studies. My research enables the use of these nucleosides as probes to study changes in structure, conformation, and dynamics of nucleic acids relevant to function, such as the dynamics of various forms of DNA damage.
Background: BA in Biochemistry. Originally from Pasadena, CA.
Interests: My interests include going to the beach and exploring San Diego.
Sritin Ghosh
Research: I am currently working on the design and synthesis of fluorescent nucleoside analogues. I am interested in finding new novel pathways of synthesis that would either cut down the reaction steps or increase the yield. I am also looking for ways to make new analogues that will have interesting properties warranting their use in biological studies.
Background: From Kolkata, India. BS in Chemistry from Calcutta University, MS in Chemistry from NIT Rourkela.
Interests: To unwind I listen to music, read books, and game.
Luka Pochkhua
Research: My research focuses on organic synthesis, with an emphasis on discovering new synthetic pathways and creating novel nucleoside analogues for applications in biological studies. Additionally, I work in the field of electrochemistry, exploring molecular interactions and enhancing the functional properties of these compounds for broader scientific use.
Background: Originally from Tbilisi, Georgia, my academic and professional expertise lies in supramolecular chemistry, electrochemistry, and analytical-organic chemistry.
Interests: Outside the lab, I enjoy outdoor activities, meeting new people, traveling, and participating in a variety of sports.
MS Students
Michelle Nguyen
Research: I am studying the design and synthesis of fluorescent nucleoside analogues, their characterization and their future applications in biological systems and biomolecules.
Background: B.S. in Biochemistry from CSU Channel Islands; originally from San Diego.
Interests: On my spare time you can catch me trying new food places, gardening (horticulture) and reading.
Undergraduate Students
Pamela Rubio
Research: I’m working on the synthesis of fluorescent nucleoside analogues, specifically ABN.
Background: I’m majoring in Chemistry with an emphasis in biochemistry. I’m from San Diego.
Interests: I enjoy playing games and baking.
Alexandra Tomasch
Research: I am studying the synthesis and structure of fluorescent nucleoside analogues.
Background: Currently majoring in Public Health. Originally from San Rafael, CA.
Interests: Outside school, I enjoy going to the beach, traveling, volleyball, and skiing.
Pedro Ramirez
Research: I’m studying the synthesis and physical properties of the fluorescent nucleoside analogue ABN.
Background: Majoring in chemistry with a goal to one day work for a pharmaceutical company as an organic chemist.
Interests: When I’m not focusing on school, I enjoy watching sports, listening to music, and spending time with my family and girlfriend.
Isabelle Palomas
Research: I am studying the synthesis and properties of new fluorescent nucleoside analogues, specifically Na-No ribonucleosides.
Background: I am currently majoring in Chemistry with an emphasis in Biochemistry and I am originally from San Diego.
Interests: I enjoy baking, shopping, and rewatching my favorite movies!
Purse Lab Graduate Alumni
Army Officer, Army Medical Service Corps, Aberdeen, MD
Adjunct Instructor in Chemistry at Lincoln University, PA
Chemistry Adjunct, Aurora, CO
Assistant Lecturer, Department of Chemistry, University of Benghazi, Libya
