In recognition of excellent academic performance and outstanding career potential in the sciences, Jennifer Urban has been awarded the esteemed Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship. A sophomore chemistry and mathematics double major, Urban is one of the 447 scholars nationwide honored by the Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program, which rewards students on track to become tomorrow’s highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. The award entails a maximum of $7,500 per year, to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, and room and board.
Urban has conducted independent research with assistant professor of chemistry, Dr. Heba Abourahma, since summer 2009. Embarking on research with limited lab experience, Abourahma says Urban “hit the ground running.”
Their work involves a technique called solid state grinding, which is used to test the relative stabilities of different cocrystals in theophylline, an active pharmaceutical ingredient used in some asthma medications. “Jen impressed me with her motivation, determination and critical thinking,” Abourahma said. “She has proven herself as a researcher and I believe that she will have a successful career in research.”
After obtaining a PhD in Chemistry, Urban plans to conduct research in solid-state chemistry and, later on, may like to teach at the high school or college level.
The Goldwater Foundation is a federally endowed agency established by Public Law 99-661 on November 14, 1986 in honor of Senator Barry M. Goldwater, who served 56 years as a soldier and statesman. It is designed to foster and encourage outstanding students to pursue careers in the fields of mathematics, the natural sciences, and engineering.