News
Nine graduate students named UGA ARCS Scholars
January 12, 2012
Writer: Rebecca Ayer
The Atlanta chapter of the ARCS Foundation Inc. recently awarded $70,000 to nine UGA doctoral students in biomedical and health sciences, one of whom received a special $10,000 grant for global health research abroad. The presentations were made at an awards ceremony held in Atlanta...more.
UGA experts to offer commentary on Alzheimer's Awareness Month
October 31, 2011
Writer: Mickey Montevideo
Contact: James Franklin, jfrankli@rx.uga.edu
Athens, Ga. --
University of Georgia experts are available to comment on Alzheimer's Awareness Month, which is recognized in November... more.
Spotlights
Pamela Dorsey
Hometown: Greensboro, NC
Before graduate school: I earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering in 2003, and a M.S. in Chemical Engineering in 2006 from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Decision to go to graduate school: My decision to go to grad school was a culmination of many events. To begin, I had many friends who were employed as engineers in various industries, such as pharma and petrochemical. However, lack of a graduate degree hindered their promotion process, so I entered a Master's program. Secondly, while working on my degree in Chemical Engineering, I had the opportunity to be mentored by a post doc (he is currently a faculty member at the University of Rhode Island). He exposed me to other aspects of Chemical Engineering and really increased my interest in a doctoral degree.
Why PBS? After researching many different programs in Biochemical Engineering, I was contacted by Dr. Tony Capomacchia concerning the Bridges to the Doctorate Program (a NIH funded program that was a partnership between UGA and North Carolina A&T State University). Through conversations with Dr. Capomacchia and online research of the PBS department, my interest was kindled to pursue a career in pharmaceutical science.
Graduate school experience: Overall I have had a positive graduate school experience. My advisor, Dr. Phillip Greenspan, has been a pivotal person throughout my Ph.D. career. His door is always open, whether to provide research guidance or light-hearted humor. Secondly, I have had the opportunity to network and associate with a plethora of people from diverse backgrouns in PBS and other departments on campus. Lastly, graduate school has helped me mature as a scientist; I have learned, as I approach graduation, to formulate and be confident in my own scientific ideas.
Soure of motivation and support? I have both friends and family members who struggle with the debilitating effects of diabetes. It is rewarding to know that my research may eventually be shown to prevent diabetic complications.
Plans for after graduation? I am weighing many different options after graduation, however I would ultimately like to work in the field of personal care products. Good health is dependent upon having a proper diet; however there is a growing scientific appreciation for the value of personal care products. My background in process manufacturing, formulations, and natural products would make me an asset to this field.
Outside of graduate school: I am an avid beauty blogger, hence my passion for personal care products. When I am not keeping abreast of the latest technologies and trends in consumer care products, I enjoy volunteering my time with local youth, traveling, and hiking.
Advice for graduate students: My first tip to fellow graduate students would be to stay flexibile. We are researchers in science, and sometimes experiments don't always go as planned. Always keep an open mind and collaborate with others; many times they may provide an alternate approach. Secondly, manage your time wisely; your time in graduate school passes by more quickly thank you think. Lastly, network, network, network!
Announcements
Registration is now open for the UGA Symposium on Pharmaceutical Development on April 19, 2012 at the Classic Center in Downtown Athens, Ga. Register online at www.rxugace.com by March 15 for early bird pricing. This event is hosted by the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, and dedicated to Professor James T. Stewart. For more information, click here.
