Celebrating the Labroots 2023 Summer Research Scholarship Winner: Anvi Surapaneni

Labroots is delighted to announce Anvi Surapaneni as the recipient of the Labroots 2023 Summer Research Scholarship. Anvi, a third-year Biochemistry major at the University of Southern California, is a dedicated and passionate student with a strong commitment to bridging chemistry and medicine.

“I'm so thankful to have received the Labroots scholarship. It truly has allowed me to continue with my research, bridging chemistry with medical applications, and pursue my passions beyond the laboratory. I hope to support STEM education in younger students, carrying the mission of this award forward.” - Anvi Surapaneni, Scholarship Winner

Hailing from the Bay Area, Anvi developed a deep interest in her field of study during a summer research program in high school, where she explored the realm of computational biochemistry. This experience opened her eyes to the thrill of conducting novel research and sparked her curiosity to dive deeper into the world of chemistry. Working in the chemistry lab, synthesizing compounds, and exploring drug development further cemented her passion for the subject.

What excites Anvi the most about her field of study is the ever-expanding range of applications it offers. Initially focusing on drug development and the pharmaceutical industry, Anvi discovered that chemistry has broader implications in areas such as energy storage, agrochemistry, and medical technology. Witnessing the versatility and impact of chemistry on various domains has been a truly exhilarating experience for her.

Anvi envisions significant changes in her field of study over the next five years. She predicts a shift towards innovation in drug combination products, surpassing the traditional oral drug formulations. With her research involvement in a laboratory and a pharmaceutical start-up, Anvi has observed a growing focus on targeting niche medical problems and exploring novel approaches. Although it will take time for these products to reach clinical testing and the market, Anvi believes this trend will shape the future of chemistry research.

Anvi attributes her decision to pursue biochemistry to her high school summer research program's principal investigator, who is also a current chemistry PhD candidate at Stanford. His dedication to enriching science education and removing barriers for high school students inspired Anvi to pursue her academic interests with fervor. On a lighter note, Anvi's passion for learning Latin dance may come as a surprise, despite her admission of having two left feet after a year of practice!

When she's not immersed in studying or working in the lab, Anvi finds solace in exploring different realms of literature, particularly historical fiction and mysteries. Additionally, she loves experimenting with new recipes, unleashing her creativity in the culinary arts. Anvi's commitment to making a difference extends beyond her research, as she actively contributes to the USC service-learning Joint Educational Program as a STEM Education Teaching Assistant and volunteers at the PIH Good Samaritan Hospital in the Mended Hearts support program for cardiac patients.

Labroots congratulates Anvi Surapaneni on her remarkable achievement as the Labroots 2023 Summer Research Scholarship winner. Her dedication, passion, and commitment to bridging chemistry and medicine make her an exemplary role model for aspiring researchers. We eagerly anticipate Anvi's future contributions to the scientific community and wish her continued success in her academic and professional endeavors.

To learn more about Anvi and her research career you can view her LinkedIn Page.