Isaac Puckett

• SOAR Position: Member; SOAR Ambassador 2024-2025
• Major: Biochemistry
• Faculty Mentor(s): Scott Handy

Current Focus: Characterization of Pyridinium and Indolium Salt-Derived Fluorescent Probes in Response to pH Sensitivity

Project Description

This project seeks to further characterize the properties of a variety of pyridinium and indolium salt-derived novel fluorescent probes that I discovered in a previous project. This project will consist of the organic synthesis of pure fluorescent probes and the further analysis of their fluorescent properties via UV/Vis spectroscopy. Since these fluorescent probes are novel, I will also characterize their properties through 1-H NMR spectroscopy, 13-C NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. This project expects to discover that some of these novel fluorescent probes that already distinguish between acidic and basic solutions will also detect subtle fluctuations in pH.

Why does this topic interest you?

This topic interests me because fluorescent probes are small molecules with the ability to assist biological researchers in further understanding the mechanisms by which diseases such as cancer function and develop.

What are your professional aspirations?

I plan to obtain a Ph.D. in organic chemistry. Later, I intend to lead a research lab focused on the discovery, synthesis, and characterization of small molecules that can function as chemical tools for scientists conducting research focused on cancer.

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Research and pursue a topic that challenges and inspires you to keep learning.

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