One scholar’s journey to becoming a biochemistry researcher at UNC–Chapel Hill
In this video, Tarynn Neal ’26 shares her research journey as a chemistry major at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
From discovering her passion for biochemistry in high school to conducting cutting-edge research in protein thermodynamics and macromolecular crowding at Carolina, Tarynn reflects on the mentors, lab experiences, and global research opportunities that have accelerated her growth.
Through the Morehead-Cain Program, she has conducted international research, worked alongside faculty mentors, and built a strong foundation in chemistry. After graduating this spring, she will begin a PhD in the field.
“My plan is to pursue my PhD in chemistry. My research here has laid a fantastic foundation of biochemistry skills and laboratory techniques and has really shown me what it looks like to be a research scientist. I’m carrying those skills, hopefully, into graduate school with me.”–Tarynn Neal ’26