Hi everyone! My name is Angel Marquez, and I am currently a junior at the University of Arizona double- majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology with a minor in Italian. My research focuses on the formulation of Ionic Liquids, which are organic salts that help poorly soluble drugs become more soluble in the body. The Ionic Liquids themselves are composed of a cation and anion component which we test various components to see which create the best formulation for solubility. My research journey is unique in the aspect of what I first wanted to do when I came into college. I was originally interested in working in Molecular Biology and mechanisms of disease, which that being the only focus of interest. I had never imagined that I could be interested in anything else such as Chemistry. This mindset changed after the two years of taking General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, where I feel in love with Chemistry and chemical formulations. This inspired me to take on a secondary major in Biochemistry and take on the opportunity to work in a drug discovery and reformulation lab. I love my research and never would have imagined myself being in the position I am today!

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