Student Stories Matt Shortridge
During his senior year at Nebraska Wesleyan University, Matt Shortridge decided to take a chemistry course at UNL. Matt was so impressed by course professor Dr. Powers, that Matt began working in Powers’ lab and applied to UNL’s graduate studies program. Today, Matt continues to work in Powers’ lab as a PhD Analytical and Biochemistry student.
Matt loves the “open door” atmosphere among the chemistry faculty. Matt relishes the opportunity to do research he’s passionate about. He loves “seeing” molecules: using equipment to study the ways molecules are assembled. Matt hopes to one day apply this kind of research to combat antibiotic resistances.
“I am currently working on three projects that are related to understanding and fighting antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance is a clear threat to public health and safety because the current antibiotics we use (penicillin, methicillin, etc…) are no longer as effective. It’s becoming more difficult to fight common infections such as staph infections or strep throat.”
“What makes me most excited about working at UNL is the fact that I have been able to work with a number of creative collaborators both within and outside the chemistry department. Learning to work with researchers from various fields allows you to think about a problem from many different perspectives and you get to see a larger picture. I believe in the end this makes all of us better scientists."
“If I ever have a question or concern, I have no hesitation talking about it with Dr. Powers or any of the faculty. Everyone here is more than willing to help with anything. I’ve had the opportunity to work with many professors here throughout my research, and everyone that I’ve worked with has always been very helpful and a pleasure to work with.”
UNL has given Matt the opportunity to travel to professional conferences and become immersed in the global chemistry scene.
“At a national chemistry conference earlier this year, I can remember sitting and watching as Dr. Richard Ernst, a Nobel Prize-winning researcher walked onto the stage. He invented my research! Having the opportunity to meet top chemists in my field is really an unbelievable experience.”
In his spare time, Matt enjoys taking care of his two dogs, cycling, and applying chemistry in a roundabout way: Matt brews his own beer, a hobby that has made him popular with fellow graduate students and faculty.
