Expected Year of Graduation: 2021

Research Lab: Dr. Xiaohua Peng

Area of Focus: Organic Chemistry/Medicinal Chemistry

Thesis: Development of novel DNA interstrand cross-linking agents by using binaphthalene analogues.

Previously Attended

Tianjin Polytechnic University, China, 2012-2016, Bachelor’s Degree (Material Sciences and Engineering)

Why I like Chemistry

It helps me know better about our world and it teaches me to think in a more rational and comprehensive way.

 Why I chose the Chemistry and Biochemistry Program at UW-Milwaukee

There are a lot of research opportunities and good lab instruments that can let me learn many techniques. The intelligent faculty members and friendly research environment help me focus a lot on my research work.

Research Goal

Develop compounds that can cross-link DNA efficiently, and then can be used as anti-cancer drugs.

Publications:

• Zechao; Heli F.; Qi Z.; Xiaohua P. “Design, Synthesis, and Characterization of Binaphthalene Precursors as Photoactivated DNA Interstrand Cross-Linkers”. Journal of Organic Chemistry, 2018, 83, 8815-8826.
• Chaoping F.; Feng R.; Qi Z;, Guojuan L.; Liming Z. “Effects of collagen incorporation on thermogelation and hydrogel characteristics of aqueous Pluronic F127 copolymer system”. Colloid and Polymer Science, 2015, 293(8), 2191-2200.
• Liming Z.; Chaoping F.; Guojuan L.; Feng R.; Qi Z.; Chuan Y.; Li Y. “A multifunctional and thermosensitive hydrogel dressing for wound healing”. China Patent, Application No.2015134204, Application Date 22/12/2015, Publish No: CN105597146A, Publish Date 25/06/2016.

Poster Presentation:

• The Effects of Leaving Groups or Substituents on DNA Interstrand Cross-link Formation Induced by Binaphthalene Analogues. Chemistry & Biochemistry Research Symposium in University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (2019).
• The Effects of Leaving Groups or Substituents on DNA Interstrand Cross-link Formation Induced by Binaphthalene Analogues. 258th American Chemical Society National Meeting, August 2019, San Diego, CA, USA.

 Awards:

• American Chemical Society Travel Award (2019)
• UWM Graduate Student Travel Award (2019)
• UWM SAC Travel Award (2019)
• UWM Chancellor’s Award (2016-2019)