Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology Ph.D. student brings CMU to Cambridge

Nicholas Banahene, a Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology Ph.D. student at Central Michigan University, will finish out the year with a fully-funded doctoral internship with Merck & Co. Inc.

Working in Ben Swarts’ chemistry and biochemistry lab, Banahene has been developing chemical tools used to investigate the cell envelope of bacteria, including the pathogen that causes tuberculosis.

It’s no surprise that Banahene was chosen for this prestigious opportunity. Among his other accomplishments at CMU, Banahene has contributed to seven peer-reviewed publications, presented at multiple national and international conferences, mentored undergraduate classes, and is a member of the American Chemical Society and the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers.

Banahene said the BCMB program at CMU allowed him to take biochemistry and microbiology course work to complement his already strong chemistry background. His work in Swarts’ lab enabled him to acquire a range of skills and gave him opportunities to present his research.

Upon completion of his internship, Banahene will return to the BCMB program at CMU to complete his Ph.D. program.