When you are younger, you are exposed to chemistry through simple experiments like “elephant toothpaste” or the explosion of Coke and Mentos. These exciting and unexpected chemical reactions can encourage children to continue a lifelong enjoyment of curiosity and learning about chemistry. This is what sparked an interest in Honors student Eleanor Wachtel, who grew up to continue finding solutions and exploring the Earth’s ecosystems.

During her time at the University of Utah, she was actively involved in research. In her freshman year, she joined the Science and Research Initiative (SRI) program, where she learned about the genetics of seeds and maize plants. Additionally, she had also participated in the Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) program, where she learned about the interactions and effects of pollen.

Through these early introductions of research, the most surprising aspect was, “I assumed that all research was novel and exploratory or that I needed to cure cancer; however, there is equally important research created on the basis of models of how certain systems interact,” said Eleanor.

With this foundational knowledge of research, she started her thesis, which discussed the aquatic climate of an organism in freshwater environments, where she examined its evolutionary genetics that have altered the way they can affect the other fish in the same environment. These changes have made the organism more harmful and infectious than its original state.

“It was interesting to learn about how they seem to have little importance, but they have a massive effect on their environment,” explained Eleanor.

Outside of academia, Eleanor also participated in the Honors Peer Mentor program for the last three years and was the captain of the University’s ultimate frisbee team.

“Sports has always been a part of my loves, and I enjoyed being involved on campus in these ways,” said Eleanor.

In the future, Eleanor plans to pursue her PhD or MD PhD degree at the University of Utah while continuing to research. In her career, she wants to continue to be involved in academics or the industry.

Learn more about Eleanor Wachel’s research at the Honors Student Showcase on April 16th, from 4–7 PM at Kahlert Village!

Aspen Delis | Journalism Intern, University of Utah Honors College