About the Seminar
From Forensics to Pharma: A Chemist’s Journey Through Research, Mentorship, and Advocacy
The path to a fulfilling career in chemistry is rarely linear. From dreams of forensic science to impactful contributions in pharmaceutical development, my journey illustrates the power of adaptability, mentorship, and self-advocacy. In this talk, I will share my experiences navigating undergraduate and graduate research, the pivotal moments that shaped my trajectory, and the lessons learned along the way. Beyond the lab, STEM outreach and advocacy have been central to my growth, providing opportunities to uplift others while strengthening my own skills as a scientist and leader. Through reflections on mentorship, community engagement, and professional development—from my early days at the University of Pittsburgh to my work in analytical R&D—I will highlight how investing in STEM advocacy has not only expanded my impact but also fueled my success. Whether you are an aspiring scientist or an established professional, this talk will offer insights into making the most of your journey, leveraging opportunities, and defining success on your own terms.
About the Speaker
Dr. Devin J. Swiner is a Senior Scientist in Small Molecule Analytical Research and Development (SMARD) at Merck & Co., specializing in preclinical and late-stage drug product development for various therapeutic targets. She earned her B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh in 2016 and her Ph.D. in 2021 from The Ohio State University under the mentorship of Dr. Abraham Badu-Tawiah. Her dissertation research focused on developing a novel ionization source for mass spectrometry using cellulose materials for clinical diagnostics. She has published seven peer-reviewed manuscripts and holds a U.S. patent in ambient ionization mass spectrometry. Dr. Swiner was recognized as OSU’s 2020 Next Generation Innovator of the Year and has received multiple awards for her contributions to STEM, mentorship, and DEI initiatives. At Merck, she leverages a robust set of analytical methods to enable innovative and data-driven research.
Beyond her scientific expertise, Dr. Swiner is a dedicated advocate for scientists of color. She has been an active member of NOBCChE since her undergraduate years and currently serves on the Board of Directors, where she works to strengthen the connection between the organization and Merck. Through her leadership, she has designed and implemented strategies to increase the recruitment of Black scientists into the pharmaceutical industry, both nationally and within the Northeast region. She believes in equipping scientists of color with the tools to define their next steps and excel in their careers. Additionally, Dr. Swiner educates on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) through blogs, science communication, seminars, and workshops, further amplifying her commitment to fostering an inclusive STEM community.