Third-Year BSPS Student Presents Research at ABOR Meeting
Rishi Chunduru, a third-year BSPS student with the R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, recently represented the college at the Arizona Board of Regents meeting on November 21. Along with over 30 undergraduate students from across the university, Chunduru shared his transformative research and scholarship experiences during a Student Showcase at the regents’ reception on Thursday evening.
This meeting was ABOR’s first at the university since President Garimella assumed his role as its 23rd president. Chunduru, nominated as a presenter by Jennifer Schnellmann, PhD, spoke with the regents, President Garimella, staff and faculty from the U of A and ASU throughout the event, answering questions about his research, academic interests, and career goals. “Presenting at this event was really enjoyable,” he said, reflecting on the conversations with guests. “I got to speak with many people who are experts in their field and have different backgrounds. Being able to discuss familiar topics at different levels and with different lenses really expanded my own perspective.”
During his undergraduate degree, Chunduru worked with the Njardarson Lab, focusing on organic chemical synthesis and a novel chemical synthesis of a Parkinson’s Disease drug, and the Xiong Lab, which focuses on novel drug discovery. His current work includes the development of a program that can assist in the drug development process. He also recently published a book under Schnellmann’s guidance, along with three other BSPS students. Outside of the university, Chunduru has held internships with GEn1E Lifesciences Inc. and HelloFam, enabling him to learn more about disease pathophysiology and geriatric health.
Once he completes his major requirements in 2025, Chunduru plans to join the Study Abroad program UA Seoul in South Korea. He will complete his honors thesis in Tucson, after which he hopes to pursue his PhD.
“One of the biggest reasons I was able to get this far and accomplish all of my goals was because of all the resources available through the College of Pharmacy,” he shared while reflecting on his academic career. “Back when I was choosing between the different colleges I got accepted to, ultimately I liked what the U of A provided students – I was only able to publish a book, work in these labs, and connect with a company for my internship because of the opportunities available here for BSPS students.”
With only select students nominated and chosen to present to ABOR, Chunduru largely credited the many resources provided to students in his program with his success, as well as his personal efforts to seek out and take advantage of those opportunities. “The opportunities here for students with the faculty and researchers are really amazing, and one of the biggest reasons I was able to attend this event and show what the College of Pharmacy has to offer to the university, President Garimella, and the field of pharmaceutical science,” he added. “Because I put the effort into all of my classes and extracurricular work, I was able to seize these opportunities as a BSPS student.” One of his most memorable event interactions was a conversation about his recent research and publication between him, Dean Schnellmann and President Garimella.
Chunduru is eager to advance his career in pharmaceutical sciences and to support next year’s student presenters. When asked for his advice, the key to success was simple: preparedness and confidence. “The moment you’re nominated, and you decide to accept, start thinking about the topic you want to present on so you can get started on your poster,” he said. He also advises his fellow undergrads to advocate for themselves and think of the event as a networking opportunity. “Try to go into it with a positive mindset,” he added.
Congratulations to Chunduru for this incredible accomplishment! The next University of Arizona ABOR meeting is scheduled for 2025. To learn more about the most recent meeting, visit their website.