My Research Journey

Research has been one of the most rewarding parts of my academic experience. I enjoy the process of solving complex problems, thinking critically, and working with others to make meaningful discoveries. Below are some of the projects I have worked on, each one giving me new skills and perspectives on science and collaboration.

Research Experiences

Kwon Lab (UCLA)

In the Kwon Lab, I worked on synthesizing strychnopivotine, a complex natural product. My focus was on optimizing reaction yields and analyzing NMR data to confirm product structures. This experience helped me refine my lab skills, learn how to troubleshoot experiments, and develop a deeper understanding of organic synthesis.

Kwon Lab Research

Ohashi Lab (Tohoku University)

In the Ohashi Lab, I studied protein interactions under osmotic stress, gaining hands-on experience with fluorescence microscopy and molecular biology. I also had the opportunity to present my research at the JYPE student researcher conference, which helped me improve my ability to communicate scientific ideas.


Beyond research, I formed close friendships with my lab members, and some of my best memories in Japan were sharing meals and experiences with them outside the lab.

View Research Abstract
Ohashi Lab Research

Approach & Takeaways

Research taught me how to break down experiments into their key components and build on known information to form a bigger picture. Errors and obstacles are inevitable, but learning to identify and solve them was just as valuable as the results. More than anything, I gained a deeper appreciation for the process of discovery.