Degree: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, with a specialization in Environmental Chemistry
Research Professor: Research with Professor Brent Gunnoe

Biography

Lucas is from Severna Park, Maryland, and graduated from Severna Park High School. He is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, with a specialization in environmental chemistry.

Lucas has been a member of Brent Gunnoe's lab in the Department of Chemistry since May 2018. His project has focused on the development of new methods for the synthesis of stilbenes through Rh-catalyzed aerobic alkenylation of arenes. Stilbenes are used as dyes, pharmaceuticals, and precursors to electronic materials. Lucas hopes that his work will provide new tools for chemists to produce these useful compounds more efficiently and with less waste.

Outside of lab, Lucas has represented the American Chemical Society at the United Nations Climate Change Conference and helped lead the Students on Climate Change project, with the aim of improving climate literacy among students and the general public. He has also been a teaching assistant for CHEM 1411 and CHEM 1421. Lucas is a member of Alpha Chi Sigma, the professional chemistry fraternity, and Amuse Bouche, UVA's long-form improvisational comedy troupe. After graduating, he will attend graduate school to pursue a Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry.