The Research Team
Patricia R. Calvo
Assistant Professor
Kansas State University
Department of Chemistry
Dr. Patricia Calvo was born and raised in Dusseldorf, Germany. She moved to the United States at age 18 to attend Lindenwood University in Missouri, where she received her B.S. in Chemistry. Dr. Calvo pursued her doctoral degree in Organic Chemistry at the University of Florida. Her graduate research, under the guidance of Dr. Ken Wagener and Dr. Brent Sumerlin, focused on the synthesis of well-defined functionalized polymers for biomedical applications. After receiving her PhD in 2016, Dr. Calvo worked as a research scientist at a Biotech company (Rochal Industries LLC) in San Antonio, TX. Her research in this position focused on the applications of polymer chemistry to create advanced wound care products and antimicrobials. After two years in industry, Dr. Calvo realized that her true passion lies in academic teaching and research. She served as a chemistry lecturer at Texas A&M University San Antonio for a year before starting a position as Assistant Professor at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL in 2018. After five years at NSU, Dr. Calvo accepted a tenure-track position at Kansas State University in July 2023. Dr. Calvo is actively involved with the American Chemical Society (ACS), both locally and nationally, and is passionate about teaching and involving students in research. She hopes to share her passion for chemistry with her students and offer her experience and advice to help students achieve their goals.
Graduate Students
Dean Afsar
PhD Student
Dean Afsar brings a rich background in chemistry to our team. He earned his master’s degree in chemistry from Manchester Metropolitan University, showcasing a strong foundation in the field of organic chemistry. Dean's current research focuses on the synthesis of antimicrobial polymers, employing various RAFT polymerization methods. This innovative work reflects his dedication to integrating modern organic techniques into the field of polymer chemistry.
Dean's future aspirations lie in transitioning to industry, where he seeks to apply his extensive research background to practical applications. His goal is to contribute to the advancement of polymer synthesis in an industrial setting, leveraging his deep understanding of both organic and polymer chemistry. In addition to his research, Dean also plays a role in supporting undergraduate students, sharing his knowledge and insights as part of the academic community.
Undergraduate Students
Veronica Knight is an undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, set to graduate in May 2025. As an ambassador for the Johnson Cancer Research Center, Veronica actively contributes to initiatives that bridge the gap between research and cancer treatment. Veronica is engaged in a research project on the development of new biocompatible polymeric chelators for radiation therapy. Veronica is enthusiastic about transitioning into industry after her graduation. Her goal is to apply her knowledge and research experience in a practical setting, contributing to advancements in chemical applications that have tangible impacts on society and industry. In her free time, Veronica loves to go to the movie theaters or take a long walk at Konza Prairie.
Riley Blitt
Major: Biological Systems Engineering
Riley Blitt is originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado. He is an undergraduate student majoring in Biological Systems Engineering. Riley's research project in the Calvo group is centered around designing polymer-drug conjugates for drug delivery applications, including cancer therapy. Riley plans on going to medical school after his undergraduate studies to eventually become a physician. Outside of school he enjoys spending time with his friends.
Tate Anderson
Major: Animal Science
Tate Anderson is currently an undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor's degree in animal science with plans to attend veterinary school and apply his knowledge to advance the production and health care of meat animals. Within the research group Tate is working on designing a polymer-antigen complexes for intranasal vaccination. Tate likes to spend his free time in the good company of his friends.
Alyssa Probst
Major: Biochemistry
Alyssa Probst is an undergraduate student persuing a bachelor's degree in biochemistry with a minor in chemistry. Currently, Alyssa’s research project in the Calvo group focuses on designing antimicrobial polymers for combating infections and antimicrobial resistance. In her free time, Alyssa loves fencing and visiting her family.
Creighton Park is currently an undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in medical biochemistry with a minor in biology with plans to attend medical school. Within the research group, Creighton is focusing on the synthesis of amine functionalized monomers for the synthesis of polymers with antibacterial properties. Creighton likes to spend his free time playing basketball with his friends.
Creighton Park
Major: Biochemistry
Nick Bougher
Major: Chemistry
Nicholas Bougher was originally born in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, and moved to Olathe, Kansas in 2011. After graduation, Nick is attending George Washington Law School. He intends to study patent law, utilizing core skills taught during chemistry courses and labs. In his free time, Nick enjoys socializing with friends and watching football.
_edited.png)