Catherine Odhiambo is a graduate student in the Williams research group. She presented her poster at the 2025 Graduate Student Research Symposium and won the first-place prize in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences category.

Catherine’s research provides new tools for chemical/synthetic biology researchers to develop high-value new-to-nature compounds, such as future therapeutics. By developing a synthetic pathway and a highly selective biosensor, this study provides a platform that facilitates the exploration and optimization of isoprenoid biosynthesis using easily accessible starting materials. This approach can expedite the design and testing of new biological systems, potentially accelerating the development of valuable compounds in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.

Nearly 200 NC State graduate students presented their research projects during the 18th annual Graduate Student Research Symposium held at the McKimmon Center on April 2. Co-sponsored at NC State by the Graduate School and Graduate Student Association, the research symposium is the signature event of Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week and recognizes the importance of graduate education and research to the university’s mission.

This year, 24 graduate students were selected as top performers after being evaluated on the quality of their research, the effectiveness of their poster presentation, their oral communication skills, and the creativity and aesthetic appeal of their poster.