By Erica Bush ’25 

This past March, six Otterbein students were inducted into Chi Omega Lambda, the honor society of the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) in Seattle. This year, only 20 students nationwide were inducted into Chi Omega Lambda — meaning Otterbein students represent 30% of the new class. 

The six students inducted were Olivia Brickey, Olivia Miller, Mason Nolan, Kaitlin Dean, Jenna McPeek and Ashni Patel. The induction ceremony was held during the ASBMB yearly conference, DiscoverBMB. This conference allowed for individuals in the biochemistry and molecular biology field to connect, attend professional development panels and learn about recent advancements in the field. 

One of Otterbein’s six inductees, Mason Nolan, is a senior biochemistry and molecular biology major. On campus, Nolan does research on protein interactions within the bacteria Streptomyces genus, and had the opportunity to present his research at the conference. 

So what’s it like to present at a professional conference as a student? 

“It was amazing to see how my project has taken shape, comprehend more about scientific research, and build upon information on the Streptomyces genus and signaling pathways,” Nolan said. “I think it was really fulfilling to understand where I started, where I am now and where I’m heading. It was amazing.”  

Nolan said that having the chance to network and meet other professionals in the biochemistry and molecular biology field was an amazing opportunity.  

“It was great to find people with similar interests who are also going to be doing important work in the future and making connections with people not only at Otterbein but nationally as well,” Nolan said. 

Nolan says that one of his favorite parts of the conference was having the chance to see Otterbein students recognized for their hard work. 

“It was very humbling to be recognized at the induction ceremony. It really makes all the efforts you do during your years at undergrad very worthwhile,” Nolan said. It was great to get to do that with a lot of people that I know go to great lengths to build up their profiles and do great work here at Otterbein and in the Westerville community.”