We are an undergraduate research lab. 

Focused on developing scientists and solving environmental problems by applying knowledge of organic chemistry and microbial metabolism.

Erica Schultz, PhD

Dr. Schultz is an associate professor of chemistry at Lake Forest College in Lake Forest, IL. Before joining the faculty at Lake Forest, she was a post-doctoral researcher at Harvard University studying enzymatic mechanisms, biosynthesis, biocatalysis and biocompatible chemistry. Dr. Schultz received her doctorate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, where she studied total synthesis and method devolopment, focusing on nitrogen containing heterocyclic. She started her chemistry career at Macalester College in Saint Paul, MN working on total synthesis and method development.

Peter Cirbo, Class of 2026

Peter is a physics major at who is pursuing a degree in chemical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis. He is an experienced physics tutor, an active member of the Physics Student Academic Advisory Committee and an Admissions Ambassador. He also serves as captain of the men’s soccer team. He is eager to expand his hands-on experience in a chemistry lab setting and develop new experimental techniques.

Anna Garry, Class of 2026

Anna is a Chemistry major from Wisconsin. She aspires to pursue a Doctorate in Chemistry. At Lake Forest College, she is playing for the soccer team, is a TA for Chemistry and is a 2023 Richter scholar. Her favorite thing about chemistry is gaining understanding on how the world works.

Unicorn, Lab Manager

Serious scientist.

Mariam Beshara, Class of 2026

Mariam is originally from Cairo, Egypt and is majoring in BMB and Economics at Lake Forest College. She developed a great interest in organic chemistry throughout this academic year, and excited to be doing research and learning more about how organic chemistry is used in the real world and more about the numerous techniques used in lab for analyzing products. She grateful to be a part of a research dedicated to saving our planet.

Haylee Christopher, Class of 2027

Haylee is chemistry major from oklahoma. She plans to attend WashU in pursuit of a masters in chemical engineering. She has worked as a lab TA for general chemistry and is excited to grow her knowledge in organic chemistry and the various laboratory techniques necessary to be a successful chemist.

Rachel Weiser, Class of 2028

Rachel is a chemistry major from the Chicago suburbs. She is a member of the Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society as well as InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. At Lake Forest college she works as a chemistry lab assistant for general chemistry. After her undergrad she plans to attend graduate school and ultimately become a chemistry professor.