2019
Nadja Cech
Researcher; Academic; Science Advocate
As professor of chemistry at UNC Greensboro, Nadja Cech’s research harnesses molecules from plants to treat disease. A major focus of this work is developing novel ways to treat drug resistant bacterial infections, the so called “superbugs.” Cech grew up off-grid in a farm in Oregon, and spent many years living with her family of five in 300 square foot yurt. In her work, she draws inspiration both from her rigorous scientific training and on her non-traditional background. She is particularly interested in what nature can teach us about ways to improve the human condition.