Student Stories Chris Frey
Chris Frey graduated with degrees in biology and chemistry from Doane College, and soon thereafter went to work in the industry. Chris worked for about three years for Pfizer, a research-based pharmaceutical company. It was then that Chris decided he wanted to go back to school and pursue a PhD in Biochemistry. Chris wanted somewhere not too far from his family in the Midwest, and after meeting Dr. Mark Griep began to study at UNL.
“I really enjoy being back at school. The research is absolutely fascinating; it’s really what I enjoy doing. Initially I wanted to go back into industry after finishing my PhD, but after being here for three years I’ve decided that I’d like to pursue my own research and teaching interests further by staying in academia after graduation. UNL has presented me with some really great research opportunities.”
“In the lab I work with primases and helicases which are DNA replication enzymes. My lab tends to focus on bacterial primases and helicases in hopes of someday finding a new antibiotic compound that works in a novel way as compared to current known antibiotics. Currently, I am also working with a viral primase that is more like an archaeal/eukaryotic primase. It's all the science of my research that excites me and makes me want to come to UNL every day. That's the best thing about it, I'm doing what I like to do.”
Through his experiences, Chris has developed a very positive relationship with his advisor, Dr. Griep.
“We have a great relationship. It’s professional, but at the same time we are great friends. It really makes things run smoothly in the lab, and we are able to accomplish a lot together.”
Outside of chemistry, Chris enjoys playing chess, watching movies, and listening to music. He enjoys the social scene that is found around Lincoln and within the chemistry department.
